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Historical Writings of Diego de Vargas

Spanish conquistador Diego de Vargas Zapata y Luján Ponce de León y Contreras (born in Spain, 1643-1704) served as the Governor of the New Spain territory of Santa Fe de Nuevo México, encompassing present-day New Mexico and Arizona. He is widely recognized for spearheading the reclaiming of...

Chronicles of Diego de Vargas: His Personal Writings Revealed
Chronicles of Diego de Vargas: His Personal Writings Revealed

Historical Writings of Diego de Vargas

In a significant discovery for historians, a collection of journals and papers from the 1680s to 1710 has been gathered from various sources across the United States, Spain, and Mexico. These documents, which include titles such as "Force of Arms," "To the Royal Crown Restored," "Blood on the Boulders," "That Disturbances Cease," and "A Settling of Accounts," provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region that today encompasses the US states of New Mexico and Arizona.

The collection is particularly notable for its association with Diego de Vargas Zapata y Luján Ponce de León y Contreras, the Spanish Governor of New Spain territory of Santa Fe de Nuevo México from 1643 to 1704. Vargas is most famous for leading the successful reconquest of the territory in 1692 following the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. He governed the region during the turbulent 1690s, a period that saw widespread rebellions among the native peoples.

The journals and papers document these events and struggles, offering valuable insights into the native peoples' resistance, accommodation, and struggle for survival. These experiences have played a crucial role in shaping the Native American and Hispanic culture that flourishes today in the region.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this discovery is the portrait of Diego de Vargas, painted by Julio Barrera. The portrait resides in the Palace of the Governors, offering a physical connection to the historical figure. The portrait is painted on canvas, capturing Vargas in a formal pose, befitting his status as a governor.

The collection consists of six volumes, with a cumulative index published along with the titles. The journals and papers were published separately, providing a comprehensive account of the events and struggles during Vargas's governorship.

This discovery offers historians and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to delve into the past and gain a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture. The events and struggles documented in these journals and papers have had a significant impact on the region, shaping it into what it is today.

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