Cacica Indians of Oaxaca Status, Businesses and Properties of the Descendants of the Indigenous Nobility in Antequera, 1680-1799; Las indias cacicas de Oaxaca Estatus, negocios y propiedades de las descendientes de la nobleza indígena en Antequera, 1680-1

Abstract

From a social and gender history perspective, this article examines the role of Indigenous noblewomen through the analysis of their status, economic activities, and property ownership. The aim is to contribute to our understanding of the participation of noble Indigenous women in urban life across multiple spheres. The study explores their social standing, use of the Spanish language and dress, marriage alliances, inheritance management, involvement in commerce, cochineal production, personal labor, and property acquisition. Drawing on notarial documents produced by these noblewomen, the research reveals diverse scenarios. It becomes clear that not all secured advantageous or stable marriages. Likewise, the article shows that some noblewomen in Oaxaca did not rely solely on family inheritance but engaged in economic activities that provided them with independent income. Finally, the study analyzes the housing conditions of cacicas based on the 1777 census, identifying with whom they lived and the circumstances of their residence —whether as wives, property owners, tenants, domestic servants, or women classified as “vagrants”.