What term describes persons of mixed European and African ancestry?

The term that describes persons of mixed European and African ancestry is "Mulattos." This classification arose during the colonial period, particularly in the context of the transatlantic slave trade and the subsequent mixing of populations in the Americas. Mulattos typically emerged from unions between European colonizers and enslaved Africans or free individuals of African descent.

Understanding this term is critical because it illustrates the complex social hierarchies and racial dynamics that developed in colonial societies. For instance, the social standing of mulattos could vary greatly depending on factors such as location and the nature of their ancestry, often resulting in a class that enjoyed certain privileges relative to purely African individuals but faced discrimination in comparison to those of European descent.

The other terms refer to different racial or ethnic blends: Mestizos denote those of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, Penínsulares are individuals born in Spain or Portugal living in the colonies, and Indios refer to the Indigenous peoples of the Americas. Each of these groups occupies a unique position within the historical context of colonial society, illustrating the diverse tapestry of cultural identities that were formed during this period.