Los pueblos de indios de Mérida

Abstract

Based on the fundamental recognition of the effect Spanish occupation had on the distribution of space among indigenous populations, this article examines how since the foundation of Mérida, the geographical distribution of indigenous tribes followed the desire to meet the needs of city dwellers both in the availability of labor and the production of material goods for consumption and trade. Therefore, native towns and shelters were usually located on the main roads to facilitate their control by the colonial government.