What group refers to individuals of Spanish descent born in the Americas with considerable social and economic power?

The group that refers to individuals of Spanish descent born in the Americas with considerable social and economic power is the Criollos. This term specifically identifies people who are of pure Spanish ancestry but were born in the colonies rather than in Spain itself. As a result, Criollos formed a distinct social class that played a significant role in the colonial society of Latin America.

Historically, Criollos held substantial land and wealth and became increasingly influential in the political and social landscape, especially as tensions rose between colonial subjects and the Spanish crown in the years leading up to independence movements. They were often educated and held important positions within the church and military, which further solidified their status as a powerful group in colonial society.

Peninsulares, another category in the context of colonial society, were those born in Spain who resided in the Americas and typically held higher-ranking positions than Criollos, which differentiates them from the empowered local-born elites. Mestizos are individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, often occupying a lower social status than both Criollos and Peninsulares. Indios refers to the Indigenous populations of the Americas, who generally had less social and economic power compared to the Criollos.