Viceroyalty of New Spain

The Viceroyalty of New Spain was a major Spanish colonial territory established in the 16th century, encompassing present-day Mexico, the southwestern United States, and parts of Central America. Governed by a viceroy appointed by the Spanish king, it aimed to administer and exploit the region's resources, maintain order, and spread Christianity. It became a vital economic hub, generating wealth through agriculture, mining, and trade. The viceroyalty played a key role in shaping the culture, politics, and society of the region, influencing the development of modern Mexico and surrounding areas until Mexico's independence in the early 19th century.