On the 'Chasquis' of New Spain: The Participation of the Indians in the Mobilization of Mail and the Reform of the Postal Service of New Spain (1764-1780)

Abstract

In America, the native populations vigorously participated in the processes of transporting, distributing and handling mail. The Viceroyalty of New Spain was no exception. From the colonial period onwards, the natives were deeply involved in the circulation of both official and private correspondence. The present article analyzes the way in which this practice was organized shortly after 1764, the point at which the postal service was transformed into a monopoly of the Spanish Crown. It is hypothesized that the work of the Indians was essential for the exchange of correspondence of all kinds, and that this condition led to the assignment of significant privileges by the government. Indeed, part of the exceptionality of the transformation of the postal service was by converting the involved Indians into an ‘elite’ linked to the processes of communication. Hence, a specific jurisdiction was created to judge them,  they were permitted to carry arms and could circulate freely, among other rights.