During the colonial period, New Spain, which encompassed present-day Mexico and parts of the United States, was organized into a hierarchical social structure. The four main social classes were:
- Peninsulares: This top class comprised individuals born in Spain who moved to the colonies. They held the most power and privileges, often occupying high-ranking positions in the government and church.
- Creoles: Creoles were people of Spanish descent born in the colonies. While they were often wealthy and educated, they faced social limitations compared to the Peninsulares, particularly in accessing top government positions.
- Mestizos: This class consisted of individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry. Mestizos formed a large part of the population and often held lower social standing than Creoles and Peninsulares, but they played a significant role in the local economy and culture.
- Indigenous Peoples: The Indigenous population, which included numerous tribes and nations, occupied the lowest social class. They faced harsh treatment under colonial rule, including forced labor and cultural suppression, and their rights were severely limited.
This social hierarchy deeply influenced the political, economic, and cultural dynamics of New Spain, extending its impact even after the colonial period ended.