What are three ways Spanish rule changed life in Mexico?

The Spanish brought Catholicism to Mexico and made it the official religion. This had a profound impact on Mexican culture and society, as religion became a central part of daily life. Many indigenous religious practices were suppressed or incorporated into Catholic rituals.

2. Establishment of the hacienda system

The Spanish introduced the hacienda system to Mexico, which was a large estate worked by indigenous laborers. This system led to the exploitation of indigenous peoples and the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few Spanish landowners.

3. Changes in social structure

The Spanish imposed a new social structure on Mexico, which was based on race and class. The Spanish were at the top of the social hierarchy, followed by the mestizos (people of mixed Spanish and indigenous ancestry), and then the indigenous peoples. This social structure resulted in discrimination and inequality, which still persist in Mexican society today.