muldades

Muladas is a term historically used in parts of Latin America to refer to individuals of mixed Indigenous and African ancestry. The term originated during the colonial era as part of a complex system of racial classification. It described a specific phenotypic mix, often implying darker skin and certain hair textures.

The word "mulada" itself derives from "mulo," meaning mule, which is a hybrid offspring of a horse and a donkey. This etymology reflects the colonial perception of racial mixing as a form of biological hybridization. The term was one of many used in the casta paintings that depicted the hierarchical social order based on perceived racial lineage.

In contemporary usage, the term "mulada" is often considered outdated and can be offensive due to its historical connotations of racial hierarchy and dehumanization. Modern understanding and terminology tend to favor more inclusive terms like Afro-Indigenous or multiracial when describing individuals with this heritage. The legacy of such terms highlights the enduring impact of colonial racial ideologies.