New Mexico History - The Colonization of 1598
Introduction
- Host: Robert Martinez, State Historian in Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Topic: Colonization of New Mexico in 1598
Juan de OƱate's Expedition
- Year: 1596
- Leader: Juan de OƱate granted contract to colonize New Mexico
- Investment: OƱate invested personal wealth in the expedition
- Recruitment Locations: Santa Barbara, Zacatecas, Mexico City
Challenges and Delays
- Competition and Political Intrigue: Delays due to political issues and competition among Spaniards
- Desertion: Many recruited colonists deserted due to delays
- Documentation: Extensive records exist, providing details about colonists
- Archives: Archivo de las Indias in Sevilla, Spain and Archivo General de la NaciĆ³n in Mexico City
- Details Recorded: Names, origins, physical descriptions
Diversity of Colonists
- Muster Rolls: Provide descriptions of colonists
- Descriptions included hair color, eye color, body type, etc.
- Indications of diverse ancestries (European, Native American, African)
- Family Composition: Some colonists brought wives and children
- Origins of Wives: Predominantly from Mexico, not Spain
The 1598 Expedition
- Composition: About 400 colonists including Spaniards, mixed-bloods, Native Americans, and Africans
- Objectives: Establish new life, gain wealth, access to land, and labor from Native people
- Leadership: Notable figures include nephews Vicente and Juan ZaldĆvar
- Diverse Roles: Included servants, colonists, and families
Journey and Logistics
- Travel Conditions: Difficult journey through Sonora Desert to New Mexico
- Transportation: Used carretas (Spanish carts) with two wheels pulled by oxen
- Supplies: Brought animals like horses, cows, pigs, sheep, chickens
- Weapons: Muskets (arcabuceros), swords, media lunas
- Religious Aspect: Included 10 Franciscan priests aiming for religious conversion of Pueblo people
Summary
- Departure: Expedition set out in 1598 after many delays
- Destination: Aimed to reach New Mexico before winter
- Conclusion: Expedition reached the area near present-day JuƔrez, Mexico in spring 1598
These notes summarize the key points and details from Robert Martinez's presentation on the colonization efforts led by Juan de OƱate in the late 16th century. The journey encompassed a diverse group of colonists and involved significant logistical and cultural challenges.