Justice and territoriality in the Toledo inspection to the repartimiento of Sipesipe (Cochabamba, Charcas, 16th century)

Abstract

This paper proposes an approach to the Visita General (1570-1575) -General Inspection- ordered by the Viceroy Francisco de Toledo as an instance of administration of justice and territorial reconfiguration. For this purpose, this work analyzes Diego Núñez Bazán’s inspection to the repartimiento de indios of Sipesipe (Cochabamba, Charcas). First, we examine the lawsuits initiated by the indigenous within the framework of the Visita General to obtain the restitution of lands occupied by Spaniards. Then, we analyze the performanceof the Inspector general (inspector general) as an agent of justice in the settlement of these lawsuits. Finally, we consider the effects that the Núñez Bazán’s resolutions and the Toledo policy had on the Cochabamba territory.