Hidalgo

An hidalgo or fidalgo was a member of the lower Spanish nobility. Hidalgos were exempt from paying taxes, but did not necessarily own real property.

Since the 7th century, the words fijodalgo and fidalgo were used in Spain, especially Castile, to refer to low-ranking landed gentry. Both were corruptions of the term "fijo de algo" (son of something). In the middle ages pronunciation changed to hijodalgo and hidalgo.

To qualify as an hidalgo solariego ("ancestral hidalgo"), one had to prove that all four of one's grandparents were hidalgos. One could also receive the title as a reward for meritorious acts, or by joining a fraternity. Of all those who held the title, hidalgos solariegos were regarded as the most noble, and treated with the most respect.

Over the years the title lost its significance. Kings routinely awarded the title in exchange for personal favors. By the time of the reign of the House of Bourbon, over half a million people enjoyed tax exemptions, putting tremendous strain on the state. Attempts were made to reform the title, but by the early 19th century, it had entirely disappeared, along with the social class it had originally signified.

The prototypical hidalgo is Don Quixote, who is sometimes known as "The Hidalgo".