How did exclusion from political power under Castile contribute to feelings of alienation among Mallorcans?

Exclusion from political power under Castile significantly deepened feelings of alienation among the Mallorcans. Following the incorporation of Mallorca into the Crown of Castile during the 15th century, local elite and common people alike found themselves increasingly marginalized from meaningful decision-making processes. The major institutions of governance, particularly administrative and judicial bodies, became dominated by Castilian officials who often lacked understanding or sensitivity toward the island’s distinct cultural and historical identity. As a result, traditional Mallorcan laws and privileges were frequently overlooked or undermined, fueling resentment among the native population.

Moreover, this political sidelining occurred against a backdrop of social and economic changes that made Mallorcan communities feel even more isolated. Castilian policies tended to prioritize the interests of the mainland, often at the expense of local needs and development. Mallorcans perceived these arrangements as a form of neglect, viewing the imposition of foreign authority as a blow to their autonomy and self-governance. Over time, these dynamics fostered not only discontent but a deeper sense of estrangement from the political structures that governed their daily lives. This estrangement was both a cause and effect of widening cultural divides, as the Castilian administration’s failure to fully integrate local voices perpetuated a cycle of alienation that lasted for generations.