The Spanish encomienda system in the Americas

resulted in

(1) the strengthening of indigenous cultures

(2) political independence for the colonies

(3) the exploitation of natives

(4) religious freedom for the majority of peasants

The Spanish encomienda system in the Americas resulted in " (3) the exploitation of natives" which was very common during this time of exploration.

Correct answer choice is:

3) The exploitation of natives

Explanation:

Encomienda, in colonial Spanish America, the judicial system by which the Spanish king tried to determine the rank of the Indian people in its American communities. It was based upon the method of demanding praise from Muslims and Jews during the Reconquista of Muslim Spain. Although the initial purpose of the encomienda was to overcome the injustices of forced laborers hired quickly after the results of the New World, in use it became a form of slavery.