Colonial Institutions & Empires

This set of flashcards covers key terms and definitions related to the colonial administration and the role of the Church in the Spanish and Portuguese empires.

Colonial Administration

The governance systems established by European powers in overseas territories, particularly by Spain and Portugal.

Viceroyalty

A political unit governed by a viceroy, acting as the monarch’s representative in the colonies.

Obedezco pero no cumplo

A phrase meaning 'I obey but I do not execute,' used by local officials to delay unpopular royal orders.

Royal Patronage

The system where monarchs exercised control over the Church, appointing clergy and overseeing religious institutions.

Inquisition

A tribunal established to enforce religious orthodoxy and punish heresies, particularly in the Spanish colonies.

Audiencias

High courts in the Spanish colonial system that served both legislative and judicial functions.

Congregación and Reducción

Mission systems aimed at concentrating Indigenous peoples into villages for easier religious and administrative control.

Repartimiento

A system of forced commerce where Indigenous people were compelled to purchase goods at inflated prices.

Corregidor

Local officials who managed provincial administration and extended royal authority in rural areas.

Creoles

People of Spanish descent born in the Americas, often involved in local governance and conflicts with peninsular-born clergy.