Final answer:
Cabeza de Vaca's positive experiences with Native Americans potentially influenced his beliefs, leading him to govern with more respect and humanity, as reflected in his writings praising their hospitality. His perspective aligned with reformers like Bartholomew de las Casas and contributed to changes in Spanish colonial laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
The experiences of Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca among Native Americans likely had a profound effect on his beliefs about them and on his later governance practices. As a result of the hospitality and kindness he encountered, which he praised in his writings in 1542, de Vaca may have developed a perspective that differed from the prevailing view of Indigenous people at the time.
Unlike many of his contemporaries who believed it was their right to conquer and exploit native populations, de Vaca's experience and positive interactions could have fostered a sense of respect and a more humane approach to governance.
Other historical figures, such as Bartholomew de las Casas, also advocated for fair treatment and recognition of the natives' humanity, following their own impactful encounters. This advocacy contributed to the issuance of the New Laws of the Indies for the Good Treatment and Preservation of the Indians by the Spanish Crown in 1542, which aimed to limit the abuses of the encomienda system.