Final answer:
The Spanish missionaries persecuted the Pueblo and suppressed their religious customs because of their resistance to Catholic conversion. The Pueblo's desire to maintain autonomy and their belief that Spanish presence caused hardships further fueled their resistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Spanish missionaries persecuted the Pueblos and suppressed their religious customs because of their resistance to Catholic conversion.
Background:
The Spanish missionaries, particularly the Franciscans, aimed to convert the Pueblo people to Catholicism. Initially, the Pueblo incorporated some Catholic practices into their own beliefs, but Spanish priests insisted on complete conversion, which angered the Pueblo. They focused on converting the young, separating them from their families, which deepened the insult.
Causes of Persecution:
The Pueblo's resistance to Catholic conversion was a significant factor in the persecution they faced. The Pueblo believed that the prolonged drought and attacks by local Apache and Navajo were consequences of the Spanish presence, which further fueled their resistance. Pueblo leader Popé demanded a return to the native ways, which he believed would end their hardships and bring prosperity.
Desire for Autonomy:
The Pueblo's resistance to Catholic conversion was also driven by their desire to preserve their autonomy and maintain their ancient belief systems. They incorporated only parts of Catholicism that made sense to them and fought against the Spanish efforts to control their labor and impose religious beliefs upon them.