Question

In the first place, regarding the Island of Espanola: The number of colonists who desire to go amounts to two thousand… and because it will serve as a place to which they can return and from which they can carry on trade with the neighboring islands:

1. That in the island there shall be founded three or four towns, situated in the most convenient places, and that the settlers who are there be assigned to the places and towns.
2. That for the better and more speedy colonization of the island, no one shall have the liberty to collect gold in it except those who have taken out colonists' papers, and have built houses, in the town in which they are, that they may live united and in greater safety.
3. That each town shall have its Mayor ... and its notary public, as is the custom in Castile.
4. That there shall be a church, and parish priests or friars to administer the sacraments, to perform worship, and for the conversion of the Indians.

Answer 1

Explanation:This excerpt appears to be a proposal for the colonization and development of the Island of Espanola, likely written by a Spanish colonial official. The proposal outlines several key points, including the founding of three or four towns on the island, the restriction of gold collection to those who have taken out colonists' papers and built houses in designated towns, the establishment of mayors and notary publics for each town, and the provision of a church and religious officials for worship and conversion of the local indigenous population.

Overall, the proposal suggests a systematic and organized approach to colonization, with a focus on establishing permanent settlements and infrastructure to support both the colonists and the local population. The emphasis on religious conversion and the establishment of a church also highlights the religious motivations often associated with European colonization during this time period.