What were the effects of the conquest on native religions?

The conquest led to the suppression and transformation of native religions, often replaced by the conquerors' beliefs.

The conquests, particularly those by European powers in the Americas, Africa, and Asia, had profound effects on native religions. The conquerors, driven by a sense of religious superiority and a mission to 'civilise' the 'heathens', often suppressed native religions. They destroyed religious symbols, banned religious practices, and converted natives to their own religions, primarily Christianity. This suppression was not just a by-product of conquest, but a deliberate strategy to control and assimilate the conquered populations.

In many cases, the native religions did not disappear completely but were transformed. The natives, in an attempt to preserve their religious beliefs and practices, often syncretised them with the conquerors' religions. This resulted in unique hybrid religions that combined elements of both native and foreign beliefs. For example, in Latin America, African slaves combined their traditional beliefs with Catholicism to create religions like Santeria and Vodou.

However, the conquest also led to the loss of many native religions. Many religious practices, rituals, and knowledge were lost due to the violent suppression and forced conversions. This loss is particularly significant because many native religions were oral traditions, and once the practitioners were gone, the religions disappeared.

The effects of the conquest on native religions were not just religious but also social and cultural. Religion was often a central part of native societies, influencing their social structures, laws, and cultural practices. The suppression and transformation of native religions, therefore, disrupted native societies and cultures. It led to the loss of cultural identity, social dislocation, and in many cases, resistance and rebellion.

In conclusion, the conquest had profound and lasting effects on native religions. It led to the suppression and transformation of native religions, the loss of religious and cultural knowledge, and significant social and cultural changes. These effects are still felt today in the ongoing struggles of native populations to preserve and revive their religious and cultural heritage.