The Kingdom of Guatemala: under the military reform 1755-1808

Abstract

Militias played a fundamental role in Spanish American Colonial society. In Central America, the influence of the militias over colonial society increased after 1755 thanks to the changes proposed in the Bourbon Reforms, where most of the taxation revenues and new earnings of the monopolies were used to finance the armament, uniforms, and militia payroll. The creation of new militias also allowed great numbers of people to enjoy privileges and honors, two things that were extremely important for the Spaniards. In similar ways, the exemptions attracted popular participation in the defense of the Crown's holdings. Through their participation, Mestizos and castes enjoyed military honors and the use of uniforms, elements that increased public recognition and social mobility. Finally, the militias defended the Crown's territories against both foreign and native enemies, therefore becoming the most important institution in the day-to-day life of Central America. Their importance in the defense of the territories justified unlimited monetary subsidies.