007 - Of the Continent

A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies (Spanish Brevísima relación de la destrucción de las Indias) is a poignant work by Spanish Dominican friar Bartolomé de las Casas, penned in 1542 and published in 1552. This powerful narrative exposes the brutal treatment of indigenous peoples during the early colonial period in the Americas, particularly on the island of Hispaniola. Addressed to Prince Philip II of Spain, Las Casass account reflects his deep concerns about the spiritual welfare of Native Peoples and his fears of divine retribution for Spains actions. Through vivid descriptions and heartfelt pleas, he critiques the inhumane practices inflicted upon the indigenous population, making this one of the earliest and most significant denunciations of colonial exploitation. (Summary by Wikipedia)