Bartolomé de las Casas

“ And in reality nothing can be more obstructive to those that live peaceably, then Inhumane and Barbarous Usage, which they, who lead a quiet and peaceable Life, too frequently undergo, and this is so fastidious and nauseous to them, that there can be nothing in the World so odious and detestable among them, as the Name of a Christian: for they term the Christians in their Language Yares, that is, Devils; and in truth are not without reason; for the Actions of those that reside in these Regions, are not such as speak them to be Christians or Men, gifted with Reason, but absolute Devils ”

“ Wherefore, Most Invincible Casar, it would be a very prudential Act for your Majesty to testify by a rigid Correction and severe Punishment of some Malefactors, that it is disservice to you for your Subjects to commit such Evil Acts, as tend to the Disobedience and Dishonour of the Almighty. ”

“ Now to endeavour to work upon them a contrary persuasion is to no purpose; for this would afford them a greater Latitude and Liberty to deride Jesus Christ and his Laws. Now the Indians who protect and defend themselves by force of Arms, think it more eligible, and far better to dye once, than suffer several and many Deaths under the Spanish Power. ”