Final answer:
Option (D), The graph of decreasing population in the Spanish colony of Mexico aligns with Bartolomé de las Casas's narrative of the severe mistreatment of indigenous populations by the Spanish, contrary to Columbus's narrative of peaceful colonization and potential for converting Native Americans to Christianity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The graph depicting the decreasing population in the Spanish colony of Mexico after the Spanish invasion provides evidence of a significant population decline. This demonstrates a significant population decline, which aligns with Bartolomé de las Casas's criticism of the mistreatment and atrocities committed against the indigenous people by the Spanish.
De las Casas highlighted the brutal and harsh treatment of Native Americans by the Spanish colonizers, contrasting with the narrative of Christopher Columbus who portrayed the indigenous population as potential servants and converts to Christianity due to their simplicity and lack of religion.
Columbus's narrative of success depicted the Native Americans as prime candidates for servitude and conversion to Christianity, often omitting the harsh realities of conquest and colonization. The sharp decrease in the indigenous population, as shown on the graph, supports de las Casas's argument and casts doubt on the idea of a peaceful and beneficial colonization process implied by Columbus.
Additionally, the enactment of the New Laws of 1542, largely influenced by de las Casas's advocacy, aimed at improving the conditions for the indigenous people and curtailing the encomienda system, despite resistance from Spanish settlers in the Americas.