Spanish Into New Mexico Review

Travels of Cabeza de Vaca Cabeza de Vaca tried to conquer Florida. Was captured by Natives, escaped, and Made their way back to New Spain in Search of the Legend of Cibola.

Esteban the Slave Was the main leader in finding the Seven Cities of Cibola. Killed by the Zuni, made demands and was thought to be a spy.

The Legend of Cibola The legend that buildings and streets made of gold in the northern lands of New Spain.

Fray Marcos De Niza Thought he saw 7 “beautiful cities of riches” from atop a distant mesa. Was wrong and returned to Spain in disgrace

Francisco Vasquez Coronado Led a large group to confirm Fray Marcos’ vision. Found mud villages and proved Fray Marcos was incorrect. Defeated the Zuni Pueblo. Continued searching for riches through the southwest but no riches were ever found. Started working on converting Indians to the catholic religion.

The Spanish Return DON JUAN DE ONATE Leads the first colonist to NM in 1598 Was wealthy and knew the lands of New Spain Began the first NM capital, San Juan in northern New Mexico. Begins to make too many demands of the Indians, especially after they offer help in their travels.

Acoma Revolt Acoma resent Spanish. Start a revolt. Kill Onate’s nephew. Onate defeats Acoma. Enslaves all Acoma. Cuts off foot of male Indians.

Spanish Decide to Stay No riches found in New Mexico. Spanish Crown decided to stay anyway and begin to convert all natives in the New Mexico land.

El Camino Real Connect NM with Mexico City. Traveling was a challenge for food and water. Spanish used it to bring goods and colonists to and from San Juan and Mexico City. Was an important trail in colonizing our state and land we now live on.