What were the rules of the Spanish colonies?

The rules of the Spanish colonies were primarily governed by a system of viceroys who acted as representatives of the Spanish crown, overseeing administration, justice, and trade. The colonies were subject to Spanish law and heavily influenced by the Catholic Church, which played a central role in governance and social life. Economic activities were regulated through mercantilism, emphasizing the extraction of resources for the benefit of Spain, while indigenous populations faced strict social hierarchies and forced labor under systems like encomienda. Overall, the colonial system was characterized by a blend of centralized authority, religious influence, and economic exploitation.