Viceroyalty of Peru

The Viceroyalty of Peru was a key administrative region established by the Spanish Empire in the 16th century, covering much of South America. Founded in 1542, it was created to govern Spanish colonies after their conquest, primarily in present-day Peru, Bolivia, and parts of Ecuador and Chile. The viceroyalty was important for managing resources like silver mines, which generated immense wealth for Spain. The viceroy, representing the Spanish crown, oversaw political, economic, and social matters. The Viceroyalty played a crucial role in shaping colonial society, culture, and trade in the region until the rise of independence movements in the early 19th century.