This article analyzes the relationship between races, military and political life, and social recognition achieved by the artisans of the New Kingdom of Granada between 1770 and 1812. The article demonstrates the artisans' ability to negotiate with authorities and other social sectors, and the partnerships artisans established by taking advantage of the rifts between civilian and military authorities. We argue that militias helped the artisans to articulate awareness which involved racial, sector, and military issues, enabling them to improve their social position and simultaneously present themselves as exemplary vassals.