Question

how did the encomienda system benefit spain?
it forced indigenous people to work on farms and in mines.
it spread christianity and spanish culture among native peoples.
it trained indigenous people to ride horses and use spanish weapons.
it provided protective outposts to help defend spanish holdings.

Explanation:

The encomienda system was a labor - tribute system in Spanish colonies. One of its main goals was to spread Christianity and Spanish culture as part of the Spanish colonial agenda. Forcing Indigenous people to work was more about economic exploitation rather than a primary benefit to Spain in a cultural - colonial sense. Training in riding and weapons was not the main benefit. Protective outposts were not a key aspect of the encomienda system's benefits to Spain.

Answer:

It spread Christianity and Spanish culture among native peoples.