What jobs were assigned to the indians at Santa Cruz mission?

At Santa Cruz Mission, the indigenous peoples were assigned various jobs as part of the mission system. Here are some of the primary occupations:

1. Agricultural Labor: The indigenous people played a significant role in agriculture, the backbone of the mission economy. They were tasked with:

- Planting, tending, and harvesting crops such as wheat, corn, beans, and fruits.

- Maintaining fields, irrigation systems, and orchards.

- Raising livestock, including cattle, pigs, and sheep, for food and other products.

2. Construction and Maintenance: The indigenous peoples contributed to the construction and upkeep of the mission compound and its structures, including:

- Building adobe brick structures, churches, and other mission facilities.

- Crafting furniture and various household items using available resources.

- Maintaining the mission grounds and infrastructure, such as roads and fences.

3. Domestic Services: Indigenous people were often assigned domestic tasks within the mission:

- Preparing food for the friars and other residents of the mission.

- Cleaning, cooking, and performing general housekeeping duties.

- Providing personal assistance and care to the friars and other members of the mission community.

4. Craftwork and Artisanship: Some indigenous people exhibited skills in craftwork and specialized trades. They were involved in:

- Weaving textiles, making pottery, and creating baskets and other handicrafts.

- Carpentry, blacksmithing, and other artisanal work.

- Producing religious items and decorations for the mission's use.

5. Religious Instruction: While the primary aim of the mission system was religious conversion, some indigenous people became involved in religious activities, such as:

- Learning Catholic doctrines, prayers, and rituals.

- Assisting in religious ceremonies and services as catechists or assistants to the friars.

- Propagating the Catholic faith among their own communities.

It is essential to note that the labor assigned to indigenous peoples was often physically demanding and exploitative. The mission system operated on a hierarchical structure where the indigenous people were expected to obey and serve the friars and Spanish authorities, often resulting in unfair treatment and limited autonomy.