Who were the peninsulares in the 1821?

In 1821, the peninsulares were individuals born in Spain who resided in the Spanish colonies, particularly in Latin America. They held high social, political, and economic positions, often occupying key roles in colonial administration and the church. Their status as the top tier of the Caste System created tensions with criollos, or those of Spanish descent born in the colonies, leading to significant unrest and contributing to independence movements throughout the region. The peninsulares often resisted reforms and changes that would diminish their privileges, which played a role in the eventual push for independence.