What was the social class system in Spanish America?

The social class system in Spanish America was based on a hierarchy that included peninsulares (those born in Spain), criollos (those of Spanish descent born in the Americas), mestizos (those of mixed indigenous and European ancestry), indigenous peoples, and enslaved Africans. Peninsulares held the highest social status, followed by criollos, while mestizos, indigenous peoples, and enslaved Africans occupied lower positions in society.