Spanish Colonization New Mexico
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Spanish Colonization New Mexico
A changing region
In the late 1500s, Spain expanded north from Mexico into a region it called New Mexico. Spanish leaders sought territory, resources, and greater influence for Spain, and Catholic missionaries aimed to spread Christianity. In 1598, Juan de Oñate led a Spanish expedition that established a colony along the upper Rio Grande. Spanish rule brought soldiers, settlers, priests, and new laws into a region already home to many Pueblo communities. Pueblo peoples lived in towns, farmed crops such as corn, beans, and squash, and maintained distinct languages, traditions, and spiritual practices. Spanish authorities built missions and demanded labor and supplies from Indigenous communities. The encomienda system granted colonists the right to demand tribute and labor from Indigenous people, although Spanish laws formally placed limits on that system. In practice, coercion and abuse occurred. Conversion efforts and restrictions on ceremonies caused deep conflict. Epidemics also brought devastating population loss. In 1680, Pueblo communities, organized in a revolt associated with the leader Popé, drove Spanish authorities from much of the region. Spanish rule returned in 1692 under Diego de Vargas. The history of New Mexico includes both Spanish influence and the continuing presence, choices, and resistance of Pueblo peoples.
Investigate the evidence
Answer using details from the account.
- To gain territory and spread Catholic Christianity
- To establish a route to the Atlantic Ocean and avoid all contact with Indigenous peoples
- To create an independent Pueblo government
- To find a sea passage through the desert
- Missionaries tried to convert Pueblo people, and epidemics caused devastating population loss.
- Pueblo communities immediately abandoned farming, and all Spanish settlers left in 1598.
- Spanish rule ended all differences among Pueblo communities, and epidemics had no effect.
- Pueblo people founded Spain, and Spanish authorities adopted Pueblo languages as official languages.
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