The Spanish were able to maintain control of their colonies in the Americas

Question

A) by utilizing the mita system of labor to ensure social order.
B) through a strict social order based on race and ethnic origin.
C) by allowing Native Americans to practice their indigenous religions.
D) with the use of Native Americans as political administrators who reported directly back to Spain.

Answer 1

The correct answer is B) through a strict social order based on race and ethnic origin.

The Spanish established a hierarchical social structure in their colonies that was heavily influenced by race and ethnicity, which helped them maintain control over diverse populations. This system included categories such as peninsulares (Spaniards born in Spain), creoles (Spaniards born in the colonies), mestizos (mixed European and Native American descent), and other groups, with corresponding privileges and social standings. This strict social order contributed significantly to the social dynamics and control in Spanish colonial society.