Brother Bartolomé de Las Casas, Historian and Prophet

Abstract

The History of the Indies of brother Bartolomé de las Casas contains a prophetic statement. It is seen at three moments: first, when brother Bartolomé, as a historian, realises that he has prophetic knowledge. Second, when the Conquest is interpreted as unfair and idolatrous and he predicts the destruction of Spain if it does not turn to God and puts an end to the violence exerted. Finally, the third moment is when brother Bartolomé regards himself as the liberator of the indigenous peoples, a conduct that is similar to that shown by the Old Testament prophets.