Jacques Poloni-Simard studies the evolution of the Indian community in Cuenca (present day Ecuador) between 1557 and 1780. He analyzes the economic situation in the region, as well as the institutions implemented by the Spaniards, in order to evaluate Indian response and adaptation to them. He suggests that three distinct periods existed. The first (1557–1619) was a period of destruction and exploitation. During this period, Indian effort was mainly directed at conserving the most essential of their traditions and at adapting to the new reality. The second period (1620–80), on the contrary, was a period of growth. In it, different individuals and groups invented new ways to deal with the situation. Social differentiation inside the Indian group was growing, as was mestizaje. Finally, in the third period (1680–1780), encroachment on Indian land and Indian labor was especially strong. As a result, new adaptation mechanisms were called upon and the distinction...

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