Which colonial crops created wealth in El Salvador?

During the colonial period, the Spanish settlers in El Salvador generated wealth primarily through the export of two key agricultural products, both of which experienced cycles of economic "boom and bust".12

• Cocoa: This was the most significant source of wealth during the 16th century. However, by 1590, increased competition from other colonies caused a sharp decline in revenue, leading to a period of economic stagnation in the region.12
• Indigo: Following the stagnation of the 17th century, the economy recovered in the 1700s due to the rising export of indigo. This trade fostered the growth of large estates and a more sophisticated commercial agricultural system.12

It is important to note that while these crops created wealth for the Spanish elite, the indigo boom, in particular, placed an immense and exploitative burden on the Indigenous population, who were forced to provide the labor for these large estates.12