Key figures in the development and expansion of encomienda:
* Christopher Columbus: Although not directly granting encomienda, Columbus' voyages and establishment of settlements in the Caribbean laid the foundation for the system.
* King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile: The Spanish monarchs played a role in legitimizing encomienda as a means of organizing and controlling the indigenous population. They issued decrees that acknowledged the system, but also sought to regulate it.
* Hernán Cortés: The conquistador who conquered the Aztec Empire, Cortés received encomienda grants for his services. This practice was replicated by other conquistadors.
* Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Spain: Charles V continued the existing policy of granting encomienda and played a part in its expansion.
It's important to note:
* Encomienda was not a formal system established overnight. It evolved over time, and its implementation varied across different regions and periods.
* The system was controversial from the start. It was criticized by many for its exploitative nature and its role in the decline of indigenous populations.
* Encomienda eventually declined and was formally abolished. This was due to a combination of factors, including internal Spanish reform efforts, the rise of new economic models, and the influence of the Catholic Church.
In conclusion, while no single ruler "granted" encomienda, various Spanish monarchs and conquistadors played key roles in its development, implementation, and ultimately its decline.