1. Peninsulares:
* Born in Spain, holding the highest social and political power.
* They were the only ones eligible for top government positions and often held the most lucrative positions in the Church.
* They were considered the "true" Spaniards and looked down upon those born in the colonies.
2. Criollos:
* Born in New Spain to Spanish parents.
* Held less power than Peninsulares but still enjoyed considerable wealth and influence.
* Many Criollos resented the Peninsulares and sought to gain greater autonomy for New Spain.
3. Mestizos:
* People of mixed Spanish and Indigenous ancestry.
* Held a position somewhere between the Criollos and the Indigenous.
* They could own property, but they were limited in their access to education and political positions.
4. Indigenous People:
* The original inhabitants of the Americas.
* They were subjected to forced labor, exploitation, and discrimination.
* They were placed at the lowest rung of the social ladder, with limited rights and freedoms.
Other Important Castas:
* Mulattos: People of mixed Spanish and African ancestry.
* Africans: Brought to New Spain as slaves.
It's important to note that this system was extremely fluid and subject to interpretation. There were many other subgroups and variations within these categories, and individuals could sometimes move between them depending on their wealth, education, and connections. However, this system of social stratification ultimately served to maintain Spanish control and privilege within the colony.