Rise of the colonial order

Abstract

The rise of the colonial order in Latin America developed through reforms that reorganized the way colonies were governed and exploited. An attempt was made to centralize power and make administration more efficient, but these reforms also caused discontent among local elites, which fueled movements for independence. Colonialism not only affected the colonies, but also the European powers, creating a dynamic of economic and cultural domination that benefited a few at the expense of many. At the Quito Court, the Spanish sought to make the most of the production of precious metals and other goods. To do this, they replaced the encomienda system with the mita, which forced indigenous people to work on various tasks, even if they received a salary. This situation generated deep inequalities in society, where the Spanish controlled power, while indigenous people, mestizos and African slaves occupied the lowest levels of the social hierarchy. Although the mestizos were looking for a place in society, they did not enjoy the same rights as the Spanish. The State and the Church played important roles during this time. The State regulated the daily life and forced labor of the indigenous people, while the Church, in alliance with the Spanish government, promoted education and culture, while justifying the conquest. Thus, the Church became a powerful institution in Quito, strongly influencing the culture and art of the region.