Social and Economic Origins of the Bureaucracy of New Spain in the 18th Century

FAIN: FB-11045-72

Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches, TX 75965-3940)
Dewitt S. Chandler (Project Director: May 1972 to present)

To analyze the social, economic, and educational backgrounds of the men who held high judicial office in the Vice-royalty of New Spain (Mexico) in the late colonial period 1700-1821. A full exploration of the topic will make possible a more realistic classroom presentation of the difficulty of imperial reform in the face of intrenched pressure groups in America, and a better appreiciation of the American attitudes which led to the independence movements.