Which method was used by Spain and the Church to subdue the Indians?

The method used by Spain and the Church to subdue the Indians was primarily through the combination of military force and religious conversion, often referred to as "the sword and the cross." This approach involved military expeditions to conquer and control indigenous populations while simultaneously establishing missions to convert them to Christianity. The use of force was often brutal, aimed at securing compliance and allegiance, while the Church sought to instill European religious values and practices among Native peoples.

This dual strategy effectively aimed to suppress resistance by exerting both physical and ideological control over indigenous groups. Establishing missions throughout Spanish territories helped cement the Church's influence, as they became centers for not only religious instruction but also cultural assimilation. This method thus emphasizes the intertwining of colonization with religious zeal, marking a significant aspect of the Spanish conquest and colonization in the Americas.

The other methods listed did not capture this complex dynamic as effectively. Negotiation and peace treaties were not the primary tactics used, as many indigenous peoples faced military confrontation rather than diplomatic discussions. Economic incentives might have been offered occasionally, but they were not the main strategy. Isolating the indigenous population from outside influences could have some relevance, but the direct use of military and religious approaches was far more prevalent in that historical context