The Viceroyalty of New Spain was a colonial territory established by the Spanish Empire in the early 16th century. It included present-day Mexico, parts of the United States, Central America, and the Caribbean. The viceroyalty was governed by a viceroy, who acted as the representative of the Spanish monarch, overseeing administration, trade, and defense. Founded after the conquest of the Aztec Empire, the viceroyalty played a crucial role in the Spanish colonization of the Americas. It became a center for agriculture, mining, and trade, significantly contributing to Spain's wealth. Key cities included Mexico City and Guadalajara.