Colonization in the New World

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to Spanish, Dutch, and French colonization in the New World.

Spanish Colonization

A period of exploration and settlement by Spain in the Americas, leading to the establishment of various colonies.

Location of Spanish Colonies

Spanish colonies were primarily located in the southern and western parts of North America, parts of Central America, and significant portions of South America.

Encomienda System

A labor system in which Spanish colonists were granted the right to use indigenous people as laborers in exchange for protection and Christian teaching.

Peninsulares

Spanish-born individuals residing in the colonies, who held the highest social status.

Creoles

People of Spanish descent who were born in the colonies and occupied a social status below peninsulares.

Mestizos

Individuals of mixed European and indigenous ancestry, who formed a significant part of the population.

Mulattos

Individuals of mixed European and African ancestry, who were part of the colonial social hierarchy.

Viceroyalties

Administrative divisions in Spanish colonies, each governed by a viceroy who acted as the representative of the Spanish crown.

Role of Religion in Spanish Colonies

Religion, primarily Catholicism, played a central role in governance, culture, and the justification for colonization.

Dutch Colonization

A period of exploration and settlement by the Dutch, mainly in North America and parts of the Caribbean.

Location of Dutch Colony

The Dutch colony primarily centered around New Amsterdam, located on the island of Manhattan.

Peter Minuit

The first director-general of the New Netherland colony, known for purchasing Manhattan Island from local Native Americans.

Peter Stuyvesant

The last director-general of the New Netherland colony who strengthened the colony but could not resist British takeover.

Patroons

Wealthy Dutch landowners who acquired large estates and were granted special privileges to encourage settlement.

Significance of 1664

The year when the British captured New Amsterdam, renaming it New York, marking the end of Dutch colonial rule in the area.

French Colonization

A period in which France established colonies, particularly in North America, focusing on the fur trade.

Location of French Colonies

French colonies were mainly located in Canada, the Great Lakes region, and parts of the Mississippi River Valley.

Role of Religion in French Colonies

Catholicism played a significant role, often promoting missionary work among indigenous populations.

Seigneurial System

An agricultural system used in New France where land was divided into seigneuries, controlled by seigneurs.

Role of Seigneurs

Seigneurs were landholders in charge of managing their seigneuries and had certain obligations towards their tenant farmers.

Culture of French Colonies

French colonies emphasized trade, particularly in furs, and developed a more cooperative relationship with indigenous peoples compared to other European colonizers.