Easy Podcast - Laws of Burgos, humanism in the Spanish Empire - Easy Español

When the first Spaniards arrived to the New World, they were faced with the unforeseen challenge of dealing with the native peoples who have lived there for thousands of years. This sparked many debates concerning their rights, land ownership, treatment and even their humanity. These discussions led to the enactment of las Leyes de Burgos, a set of laws governing the behavior of the Spaniard settlers and providing unprecedented rights and protections for the living and working conditions of the indigenous peoples. Click play to hear about the major historical importance and ramifications of las Leyes de Burgos, considered the first step towards our modern labor and human rights.