Which of the following was a characteristic of the encomienda system?

A. Was ultimately replaced by the indentured servant system

B. Benefited both European and native American groups

C. Relied on limited term labor contracts

D. Led to mistreatment if Native American workers

D. Led to mistreatment if Native American workers

Explanation:

By a decree of the Spanish king in 1503, Indians, nominally considered free, were transferred to the guardianship of the conquerors, who were obliged to pay dues, to serve bondhold in mines and estates.

The owner of the encomienda (encomendero) was obliged to actively promote the conversion of the Indians to Christianity, their assimilation of a new "reasonal" lifestyle, i. e., similar to the way of life of the Spaniards themselves, and protect them in the event of a military threat. De jure, the encomienda was inalienable and did not give rights to either the land or the identity of the Indian. De facto encomendero had virtually unlimited power over his wards, which contributed to numerous abuses and brutal exploitation of the indigenous population.