Individuals born in Latin America of Spanish descent are referred to as what?

Individuals born in Latin America of Spanish descent are referred to as Creoles. This term specifically describes those who were born in the colonies and were of European ancestry, particularly Spanish. The distinction is significant within the social hierarchy established during colonial times, where Creoles were typically seen as socially inferior to those born in Spain, known as penínsulares, who held the highest positions of power.

Creoles played an important role in the history of Latin America, especially during the independence movements in the early 19th century, as they sought greater power and rights within their own societies. Understanding this context highlights the tensions and social dynamics that characterized colonial Latin America.

The other terms relate to different groups: penínsulares are those born in Spain, mestizos are individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, and indios refers specifically to Indigenous people. Each term reflects a distinct aspect of the diverse cultural and social fabric of Latin America.