Spanish colonial law refers to the legal system established by Spain in its colonies during the 16th to 19th centuries. It was based on a combination of Spanish law, local customs, and the Catholic Church's influence. This legal framework aimed to regulate various aspects of colonial life, including land ownership, trade, and governance. The laws were codified in documents like the Laws of the Indies, which outlined the rights and responsibilities of colonists and indigenous peoples. These laws sought to protect indigenous populations while promoting Spanish interests, often leading to complex interactions between different cultures and legal practices.