Viceroyalty of New Spain Overview

The Viceroyalty of New Spain was a major territorial entity of the Spanish Empire, established after the fall of Tenochtitlan. It spanned parts of North America, Central America, and even Asia. Governed by a Viceroy, it had a complex administrative structure. The Spanish imposed Catholicism on indigenous peoples, leading to cultural shifts. Over centuries, the Viceroyalty expanded and faced internal challenges, including social inequality and Creole discontent. The Bourbon Reforms altered its administration. Ultimately, the French invasion of Spain and local uprisings led to its dissolution in 1821, paving the way for Mexican independence.

What was the primary reason for the establishment of the Viceroyalty of New Spain?

• To explore new trade routes

• To manage the newly conquered territories

• To establish a new monarchy

• To spread Protestantism

Who was the first Viceroy of New Spain?

• Hernán Cortés

• Carlos V

• Antonio de Mendoza

• Sebastián Ramírez de Fuenleal

What was the main goal of the spiritual conquest in New Spain?

• To build new cities

• To convert indigenous peoples to Catholicism

• To create new laws

• To establish trade relations

Which century was marked by the maintenance of peace in the Viceroyalty?

• 16th century

• 18th century

• 17th century

• 15th century

What was a significant change during the Bourbon Reforms?

• The introduction of new taxes

• The establishment of new trade routes

• The division of the Viceroyalty into intendancies

• The abolition of the Viceroyalty

What event contributed to the end of the Viceroyalty of New Spain?

• The discovery of new gold mines

• The French invasion of Spain

• The establishment of new colonies

• The signing of a peace treaty

Which group held the most power in the social hierarchy of New Spain?

• Mestizos

• Indigenous people

• Creoles

• Peninsular Spaniards

What was the primary economic activity in New Spain?

• Textile production

• Shipbuilding

• Mining

• Fishing

What was the role of the Catholic Church in New Spain?

• To convert natives and control education

• To lead military expeditions

• To govern the provinces

• To establish trade routes

What was the Encomienda system?

• A system of land grants to Spanish settlers

• A method of forced labor for indigenous people

• A religious conversion program

• A trade agreement with indigenous tribes