Abolishment of Encomienda System in Azuero

The abolishment of the encomienda system in Azuero was a pivotal change initiated by the Spanish Crown in response to ongoing protests from the local population. This system had allowed Spanish settlers to demand labor and tribute from indigenous people, leading to widespread mistreatment and exploitation. The local protests highlighted the injustices faced by the native population, prompting the Crown to reconsider its policies. Following the abolishment, a new system of landownership emerged, favoring medium and smaller-sized proprietors over the large landowners who had previously held significant power. This shift not only redistributed land but also altered the social and economic dynamics within the region, empowering a broader segment of the population and laying groundwork for future movements toward independence in Panama.