Social Classes of New Spain (Mexico after the fall of Montezuma and the Aztec’s)

Conquers Aztec’s and surrounding “Indian” people for the expansion of Spain Sets-up a social class situation that is primarily based on Blood and place of birth – Allegiance to Spain is key. Spain – wants to keep its colonial expansion without having to commit troops and money to defend against rebellion. “how do we keep the new territory loyal to Spain”

Peninsulares - top social class given large estates called haciendas where they could grow crops, raise cattle and other farm animals for sale of products/trade. Spanish-born (pure bloods from Spain) Were the only ones who could hold high public office (mayor, etc) Native Americans and Aztecs provided labor on the farms Best chance to keep the peace by their allegiance to the crown of Spain. System called Encomienda System

Creoles – Second class below the Peninsulares. They were of pure Spanish Blood but were born in New Spain (Mexico) rather than in Spain. Could not hold the same level of public office and were not granted the haciendas from the king, but could inherit land from their parents if they were Peninsulares.

Mestizos - Mixed ancestry blood, could be the child of a Peninsulares and a Native Indian These were the working class people of the society, mainly in small towns and communities. Mulattos – Mixed blood of African Slaves and Mestizos rarely ever mixed with Creoles or Peninsulares. Took a slightly higher place in society because they were not purely slave.

Captured Aztec, Native Indian Tribes, and Slaves from Africa. Used for labor with essentially no rights. Under Encomienda System, “labor” was to be treated fairly, with shelter, food, and living supplies.

PeninsularesPeninsulares CreolesCreoles MestizosMestizosMulattosMulattos Native Indians Black Slaves Based on Blood and birth location Granted land, political office and voting rts Inherit land, still considered upper class No inheritance Lowest of the middle class No rights whatsoever