Resumen

LEFEBVRE, Karine. Continuity and Transformation of Territorial Organization in the 16^th century: the Case of the Araró-Zinapécuaro Region. Relac. Estud. hist. soc. [online]. 2020, vol.41, n.162, pp.208-230.  Epub 02-Mar-2021. ISSN 2448-7554.  https://doi.org/10.24901/rehs.v41i162.796.

The article analyzes territorial changes in the region of Araró-Zinapécuaro (Michoacán, Mexico) during the 16th century. Beginning in the 1540s, the Christianization of an important Tarascan ceremonial center and the establishment of a Franciscan convent led the authorities to relocate administrative functions from Araró, the original headtown (cabecera), to Zinapécuaro. This case study demonstrates the progressive adaptation of pre-Hispanic territorial organization to the needs of New Spain. Based on analyses of historical documentation and archaeological data, the paper offers reflections on the impact of this change on the subject peoples, their territory, and the exploitation of natural resources.

Palabras llave : New Spain; Araró-Zinapécuaro; header; territorial reorganization; administrative competencies; religious conquest.