Colonial Latin America - Family and Society

These flashcards focus on key concepts discussed in the lecture about family and society during colonial times in Latin America, emphasizing the complex relationships and societal structures.

What is the primary focus of Chapter 7 in Colonial Latin America by Burkholder and Johnson?

The chapter examines family and society within the context of colonialism.

What was one key aspect of the colonial encounter regarding racism?

Racism as we understand it today was not a universal feature of inter-ethnic or inter-societal relations.

How did the Europeans view indigenous societies and their history?

Europeans assumed that they had a history while peoples from other parts of the world did not.

What role did women play in the relationships between European men and non-European women?

Non-European women were often seen as concubines without the same legal or moral obligations as European women.

What was the legacy of the violent conquest of the Americas on women?

Non-European women were often treated as 'spoils of war' and faced abduction and rape.

How did colonial society view children from unions between European men and non-European women?

These children were seen as a separate ethnic group, without patrimony or full societal integration.

What factors influenced the perception of whiteness in colonial society over time?

Wealth and social status influenced perceptions of whiteness, leading to the overlooking of non-European heritage.

What was the 'Culture of Honour' and its significance in colonial society?

The 'Culture of Honour' preoccupied the elite and influenced social norms regarding relationships and family.

How did colonial relationships differ between Peninsulares and Creoles?

Relationships between Peninsulares (Europeans born in Spain) and Creoles (those born in the Americas) were viewed as more valuable.

What impact did the existence of mixed descent individuals have on colonial society?

While many mixed descent individuals ascended to important positions, European society struggled to reconcile this with its notion of superiority.