Castilian Justice and Columbian Injustice. The end of the Columbian Government in Hispaniola (original) (raw)

2012, REVISTA: Journal on European History of Law VOLUMEN / PÁGINAS / EDITORIAL / AÑO: 3Journal on European History of Law

Abstract

This research is based in the "pesquisa" ordered by governor Francisco de Bobadilla in which witnesses testified the misrule of the Admiral-Viceroy of the Indies.

Key takeaways

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  1. Christopher Columbus exercised unprecedented judicial powers as Viceroy and Chief Justice in the Indies.
  2. The Capitulación granted to Columbus was based on an impossible promise of reaching Asia.
  3. Columbus's rule led to severe abuses, including arbitrary executions and exploitation of the Taino Indians.
  4. Fray Bernal Buyl's opposition highlighted the conflict between religious and colonial authorities under Columbus.
  5. The investigation by Bobadilla exposed corruption and mismanagement in Columbus's administration, resulting in his removal.

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FAQs

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What judicial powers did Columbus hold over the Indies?add

Columbus possessed unmatched judicial powers, functioning as both Viceroy and Chief Justice in the Indies, allowing him to enact the Siete Partidas legal code on the indigenous population.

How did Columbus manage indigenous relations and justice in Hispaniola?add

Columbus often used excessive punishment, including death penalties for minor offenses, undermining Castilian law while quelling resistance, as noted by contemporary chroniclers.

What role did the Church play in Columbus's governance?add

The Church, represented by Fray Bernal Buyl, frequently clashed with Columbus over issues of justice and evangelization, highlighting tensions between religious intentions and colonial administration.

What conflicts arose between Columbus and royal officials?add

Felix and other royal officers, like Bernal de Pisa, faced retribution from Columbus for exposing abuses, illustrating the struggles between Columbus's regime and royal oversight.

How did Columbus's rule lead to social disruptions among settlers?add

Under Columbus's orders, severe punishments led to declining morale, resulting in incidents of starvation among settlers, particularly in Isabella, as documented by notary Rodrigo Manzorro.