Extranjeros entre dos mundos: una aproximación proporcional a las colonias de mercaderes extranjeros en Sevilla, 1570–1650

Abstract

This paper analyzes the foreign presence in the commerce of Seville during the Golden Age of Spain. As a hub between Europe and America, the city attracted a considerable number of foreigners who participated in the commerce with both continents. In the majority of cases, their role was seen as negative by the Spanish observers, as they allegedly were in charge of almost 90 percent of the Indies trade. This article examines several sources to ascertain the proportions between the different foreign nations, as well as the relations between Spaniards and foreigners among the richest merchants of the city. Documents from the notaries of Seville prove to be most relevant, as well as tax lists of merchants. First, the period between 1570 and 1650 is considered as a whole to differentiate the foreigners from various regions of Europe. Second, the scrutiny of sample years gives information of the changes that occurred during the time of consideration. And third, the analysis of various tax lists offers a picture of the proportions between Spaniards and foreigners in the American and European commerce of the city