Council of the Indies

The Council of the Indies was a governing body established by Spain in the 16th century to oversee its vast colonies in the Americas and Asia. It was responsible for managing colonial policies, administration, justice, and economic affairs, ensuring the king’s authority across distant territories. The council operated in Spain, receiving reports and issuing directives to colonial governors and officials. It played a key role in maintaining Spanish control, implementing laws, and organizing trade and exploration. Essentially, it served as the central administrative authority for all Spanish colonies during the height of the Spanish Empire.