What conflict arose between the Gulf people and city? Also what themes arose from this conflict?

In "The Pearl" Kino and his people are put down in so many ways. Kino and the rest of the villagers are uneducated the townspeople feel that they can take advantage of them. Many of the townspeople represent European oppression and colonization. The pearl buyers try to always take advantage of the villagers: this is simply the way of life. The villagers accept this injustice as their place in the world. Since the villagers do not have any money, doctors and nurses refuse to treat the sick Kino and his people are looked down upon so badly that the doctor considers them animals and not human because of their race.