A.P U.S. History the Ultimate Study Guide Society and Change Why did the Spaniards begin importing African Slaves African slaves were imported to meet the Spaniards' labor needs More so after the Native American population had been decimated Died due to harsh conditions and European diseases Peninsulares? Natives of Spain who were ranked at the top of New Spain's rigid caste system Creoles were individuals of Spanish parentage who had been born in the New World Why did English colonists enjoy a greater degree of freedom from government interference English colonizing efforts were supported by private rather than government funds Joint-Stock Companies What is the oldest city in North American St. Augustine, Florida