Capitan

Just curious about the title of CAPITAN of the 16th and 17th centuries in Mexico.

Was it just a military title and / or was it an honorary title awarded to influential prominent and educated men?

Was it also a title much like the British do when it dubs prominent men with Knighthood and the title of SIR?

Many of my ancestors carry that title but I wonder if they were really military officers.

Just asking.

Joseph de Leon