Week 14

I feel like Restall and Stern contrast a lot when it comes to the discussion of the Black Legend. When Restall discusses the Conquest and Colonialization of the South Americas, he describes it in a way such that the perception that people had was that it was incredibly easy for the Spaniards. However, as Restall continues he explains that this take over was not as easy as perceived. Restall explains through his text that the conquest was not as easy as it appeared, and that there were many native factors that had to do with this glorious take over (from the Spaniard prospective) I think that this kind of idea is shared in the Black Legend, in the sense that things were not as nice and clean as perceived. The Black Legend speaks to the harsh reality of what the conquest was like, as well as the religious influences that played a huge part of the conflict not only with the natives, but the Spaniards themselves. The Black Legend was also known for spreading propaganda throughout Europe promoting the assimilation of the Native Culture, and promoting the spread of Christianity in a positive way. Restall’s view of what actually happened is very Black Legend-esk, and I would have to agree. Conflict is not good between two kinds of people, but especially within the same side of a conflict.