Final answer:
Rivera's painting presents a grim view of the Encomienda system and Spanish rule, highlighting the severe exploitation and violence against indigenous peoples, aligning with the critical historical accounts by Bartolomé de Las Casas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The depiction of the Encomienda system and Spanish rule in Rivera's painting provides a harrowing view of their impact on native populations. Rivera's mural titled Exploitation of Mexico by Spanish Conquistadors graphically illustrates the atrocities committed by the Spanish against indigenous peoples, showcasing brutal scenes of hanging and whipping, suggesting a stark and negative perspective. The corruption of Spanish figures is also evident, underscoring the exploitation and martyrdom that became a fundamental aspect of Mexican history.
Notably, the work of Bartolomé de Las Casas, a former encomendero turned critic, further emphasizes the cruel and merciless nature of the Spanish conquistadores and the encomienda system. His advocacy led to the New Laws of 1542, which aimed to abolish the system, although the reforms faced violent opposition and slow implementation. These historical accounts align with Rivera's artistic portrayal of Spanish rule as detrimental to the indigenous population.