The Church in the subjugation of Mexico

Purpose: It was the purpose of this study to present an account of (1) the role the church played in the conquest of Mexico; (2) the church’s missionary labors in Mexico; (3) the vast and powerful organization into which the church developed during the colonial period; and (4) the charitable, educational, and artistic accomplishments of the church in Mexico. Methods: The Method used to obtain data for this study was the examination of books, periodicals, and encyclopedias in the Sam Houston State College Library, Houston Public Library, and Rice University Library. Findings: From the information examined the following conclusions can be drawn: 1. In Mexico as in Spain the church was closely affiliated with the state. 2. Catholicism blended easily with the pagan religion of Mexico because of their similarities. 3. Hernan Cortez and his expedition introduced Christianity to Mexico. 4. The majority of the clergy in Mexico did not want to abolish the encomienda system, but only improve the working and living condition of the Indians under the system. 5. The early friars and clergymen were outstanding missionaries, but later members were not so diligent. 6. The church was well organized in Mexico within a few decades after the conquest, and continued to grow in power and wealth throughout the colonial period. 7. In order to convert so many natives the missionaries used for methods, teaching, preaching, use of force and authority, and the suppression of idolatry. 8. The church had complete control of education in Mexico but did not encourage independent or creative thinking.