4 Social Classes of Mexico Flashcards

Social Classes of Mexico

• Peninsulares

  • Highest social class in colonial Mexico
  • Composed of individuals born in Spain residing in the New World
  • Held the most political and economic power

• Criollos

  • Second class, consisting of individuals of Spanish descent born in Mexico
  • Often wealthy and influential but lacked the same privileges as Peninsulares
  • Played a significant role in the push for Mexican independence

• Mestizos

  • Third class, representing a mixed heritage of Spanish and Indigenous ancestry
  • Formed a large portion of the population during colonial times
  • Faced social and economic disadvantages compared to higher classes

• Indians

  • Fourth and lowest class, primarily consisting of Indigenous peoples
  • Experienced severe oppression and discrimination
  • Largely marginalized in socio-economic structures and policies

Explore the social hierarchy of Mexico through this engaging flashcard quiz. Learn about the four distinct classes: Peninsulares, Criollos, Mestizos, and Indians. Test your knowledge and understanding of each class's significance in Mexican history.