Although the Native Americans lacked guns, germs, steel and horses, they continued to valiantly defend themselves against the Spanish invaders. On December 21, 1598, the Mapuche Nation of southern Chile defeated the Spanish in a major battle at Cualaba. Led by their commanding officer, Pelentaru, the Mapuche launched a surprise night raid against the Spanish, killing… Continue reading Revenge of the Mapuche 1598
Year: 1598
“The Last Conquistador” 1598
On April 30, 1598, explorer Juan de Oñate forged the El Paso River and claimed all of New Mexico beyond the river for Spain. Oñate was born in Zacatecas, Mexico to Spanish-Basque colonists and silver mine owners. He married Isabel de Tolosa Cortés de Moctezuma, the great granddaughter of the Aztec Emperor. Oñate ruthlessly suppressed… Continue reading “The Last Conquistador” 1598