Resumen

MEZA, Robinzon. Taxation, defense and power local in Maracaibo (1681-1793). Tiempo y Espacio [online]. 2014, vol.24, n.61, pp.223-239. ISSN 1315-9496.

This article examines the consequences for the economy of the Province of Maracaibo due to the tax system of the Spanish crown from the end of the 17th century to the last part of the 18th century. It refers specifically to the organization of the so called “new tax,” that affected the principal product of the regional economy which was cacao. For that reason it is interesting to clarify the reasons behind its establishment, the legal norms, the importance for the Royal Ministry of Finance and what farmers and merchants thought of it. It touches on a theme linked with relations of power: on one hand the Monarchy and its representatives in the colony, that made evident a policy according to which the provinces should pay the expenses of their defense and other aspects related to their administration; on the other hand, the elite, represented by the town council, who wanted to protect the benefits derived from their productive and commercial activities.

Palabras clave : Royal Ministry of Finance; Defense; Maracaibo; town council.

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