What was one lasting consequence of the Spanish colonization of the Americas?

The establishment of a racial hierarchy is indeed a lasting consequence of Spanish colonization in the Americas. During the colonial period, the Spanish imposed a social structure that prioritized Europeans, particularly those born in Spain, over indigenous peoples and individuals of mixed descent, known as mestizos. This hierarchical system categorized individuals based on their ethnicity and place of birth, which had profound implications for social status, economic opportunity, and political power.

This racial hierarchy continued to influence social dynamics long after the end of Spanish colonial rule and contributed to patterns of inequality that persisted in many Latin American countries. The legacy of this system is evident in contemporary discussions about race, privilege, and identity in post-colonial societies.

The other options do not accurately reflect the complexity of the consequences of Spanish colonization. For example, while there was some integration of customs, the overarching system maintained distinct divisions rather than blending cultures equally. The introduction of European languages was widespread, but it was not exclusive, as many indigenous languages continued to be spoken. Additionally, the idea of preserving indigenous cultures without change contradicts the realities of colonization, which usually involved significant cultural disruption.