Spanish conquistador Hernando de Lerma founds the settlement of Salta, Argentina.

The Age of Conquistadors: Explorers, Conquerors, and Empire Builders

The term "Conquistadors," derived from the Spanish and Portuguese word for 'conquerors,' refers to the intrepid explorer-soldiers of the Spanish and Portuguese Empires who were instrumental in shaping the global landscape during the 15th and 16th centuries. This pivotal era, often called the Age of Discovery, saw these individuals venture far beyond the familiar shores of Europe, extending their reach to the vast continents of the Americas, the distant islands of Oceania, the diverse lands of Africa, and the rich markets of Asia. Their expeditions were driven by a complex mix of motives, including the quest for new trade routes, the search for immense wealth (particularly gold and silver), the desire for personal glory, and a fervent zeal to spread Christianity. Through their efforts, much of what we now know as the Americas came under the dominion of Spain and Portugal, laying the foundations for distinct colonial empires.

Spanish Expansion in the Americas and Beyond

Following Christopher Columbus's arrival in the West Indies in 1492, the Spanish rapidly began to establish their presence. Often led by hidalgos—a class of minor nobility, frequently younger sons seeking their fortunes—from the western and southern regions of Spain, the initial phase of empire-building focused on the Caribbean. Islands such as Hispaniola, Cuba, and Puerto Rico served as vital bases, from which further expeditions were launched into the mainland.

One of the most dramatic chapters in this expansion was Hernán Cortés's campaign against the formidable Aztec Empire, led by Moctezuma II. Between 1519 and 1521, Cortés, with a relatively small contingent of Spanish soldiers and crucial alliances with indigenous rivals of the Aztecs, managed to overthrow this powerful civilization. From the rich territories of the former Aztec Empire, Spanish rule expanded significantly, pushing north into what is now northern Central America and reaching parts of the southern and western United States. Moreover, from Mexico, Spanish conquistadors embarked on ambitious voyages across the Pacific Ocean, establishing a vital connection that led to the colonization of the Philippines.

Further south, other conquistadors set their sights on the vast and intricate Inca Empire. After crossing the Isthmus of Panama and navigating the Pacific, they reached the northern regions of Peru. Francisco Pizarro, mirroring Cortés's audacious strategy, successfully subdued the Inca Empire, a monumental undertaking that similarly capitalized on internal divisions and the psychological impact of European weaponry. With Peru as their primary base, Spanish conquistadors then extended their conquests across much of modern-day Ecuador and Chile.

The conquest of Central Colombia, home to the sophisticated Muisca civilization, was primarily accomplished by the licentiate Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada. Meanwhile, the northern coastal regions of what is now Colombia were extensively explored by figures such as Rodrigo de Bastidas, Alonso de Ojeda, Juan de la Cosa, and Pedro de Heredia. In the south-western parts of Colombia, Bolivia, and Argentina, multiple expeditionary forces converged: some conquistadors advanced from Peru, while others arrived directly from the Caribbean and the Río de la Plata-Paraguay regions. These extensive and often brutal conquests profoundly shaped the demographic and cultural landscape of the continent, giving rise to the basis for modern Hispanic America and the broader Hispanophone world.

Portuguese Contributions to Global Conquest and Trade

Not to be outdone, conquistadors serving the Portuguese Crown also led numerous expeditions, establishing a significant overseas empire. Their conquests spanned parts of South America (most notably Brazil) and Africa, while their strategic focus on commercial colonies extended across Asia. These endeavors laid the groundwork for the modern Portuguese-speaking world, with its vibrant cultural ties across the Americas, Africa, and Asia.

Among the most prominent Portuguese conquistadors was Afonso de Albuquerque, whose strategic brilliance and military prowess earned him the title "Governor of the Indies." He orchestrated crucial conquests across India, the Persian Gulf, the East Indies, and East Africa, securing vital trade routes and establishing key Portuguese strongholds. Another notable figure was Filipe de Brito e Nicote, who led conquests into Burma (modern-day Myanmar) and famously declared himself King of Pegu, illustrating the ambitious scope of Portuguese expansion.

Founding Cities and Lasting Legacies

Beyond military conquest, conquistadors were also pivotal in the establishment of numerous cities, many of which were built upon existing indigenous settlements. Iconic examples include Mexico City, erected atop the ruins of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, and Manila in the Philippines. Their explorations were equally significant, delving into the formidable Amazon Jungle, the vast expanse of Patagonia, the unexplored interior of North America, and contributing to the discovery and mapping of the Pacific Ocean. Their legacy is complex, marked by both immense acts of exploration and profound cultural destruction, but undeniably foundational to the development of many modern nations.

Hernando de Lerma Polanco: A Conquistador's Controversial Legacy in Tucumán and Salta

Born on November 1, 1541, in Seville, Spain, Hernando de Lerma Polanco was a multifaceted figure of the Spanish colonial period: a conqueror, politician, lawyer, and ultimately, a city founder. His career took a significant turn on November 13, 1577, when King Philip II of Spain appointed him Governor of Tucumán, a vast territory encompassing present-day Argentina.

A Turbulent Administration

Historians have frequently characterized de Lerma as a man prone to violence, and his tenure as governor was indeed marked by numerous conflicts and controversies. He quickly developed antagonistic relationships with various individuals in the region, including fellow Spaniards. Among those he persecuted was the spokesman for a Catholic bishop, highlighting the often-tense interplay between civil and ecclesiastical authorities in the colonies. He also harbored a strong dislike for Francisco Salcedo, another devout Catholic who had notably established a church in Santiago del Estero.

De Lerma’s opponents often faced dire consequences, with many ending up imprisoned or even killed. Salcedo, seeking refuge from de Lerma's hostility, had retired to another city and was convalescing. However, de Lerma's men tracked him down and forcibly returned him to Tucumán. There, Salcedo was subjected to a trial and subsequently jailed. The repression extended beyond Salcedo, as a significant number of his supporters were also killed, underscoring the governor's authoritarian and brutal methods.

The Founding of Salta: A Visionary but Troubled Endeavor

Despite his contentious rule, de Lerma made a lasting contribution with the founding of the city of Salta in April 1582, strategically located next to the Arenales River. His vision for Salta was ambitious: he foresaw it as a crucial economic center. This perspective was informed by the Spanish government's establishment of new seaports in Santiago de Chile, Callao (Peru), and Buenos Aires (Argentina). De Lerma believed that Salta's unique geographical position, situated between the wealthy Viceroyalty of Peru and the burgeoning port at the Río de la Plata, would be a distinct advantage. He envisioned the city serving as a vital nexus, directly connecting these distant yet economically significant regions. He was confident that Madrid's colonial administration would ultimately re-route their valuable shipments through Salta, thereby transforming it into a prosperous hub. He named his new settlement "Lerma City on Salta Valley," though the shorter name ultimately prevailed.

To bolster the new settlement, Hernando de Lerma adopted a conciliatory approach toward the indigenous peoples of the area, befriending them and recognizing their potential as a vital labor force. He also actively encouraged other Spaniards to settle in the nascent city, hoping to attract more residents and solidify its position.

However, the establishment of Salta did not bring an end to de Lerma’s troubles. The new city soon became a focal point for further rivalries, as more conquistadors arrived, attempting to assert their own claims and seize control, leading to multiple feuds. Furthermore, the early years of Salta were plagued by periods of disease, and the region itself was prone to frequent tremors, adding to the instability and challenges faced by its inhabitants.

Downfall and Lasting Infamy

De Lerma’s turbulent reign came to an abrupt end in 1584 when he was arrested and sentenced to jail in Salta. He appealed his conviction and traveled back to Spain to present his case before the supreme court. Unfortunately for him, his appeal was rejected, and he was subsequently imprisoned in a Spanish jail. While it is known that Hernando de Lerma Polanco died in jail, the exact year of his death remains unrecorded.

His legacy is largely stained by his controversial actions. Historian Paul Goussac starkly characterized his governance, stating that "de Lerma's administration was nothing but a series of criminal attempts." Similarly, Salta-born historian Armando Bazan, in one of his works, vividly described de Lerma as being "as malign as a disease," encapsulating the profound negative impact he had on the region and its people.

Frequently Asked Questions About Conquistadors and Hernando de Lerma Polanco

What does "Conquistador" mean?
The term "Conquistador" (Spanish and Portuguese: conquistador) directly translates to 'conqueror' in English. It refers to the explorer-soldiers who led the conquest and colonization of territories for the Spanish and Portuguese Empires.
What empires did Conquistadors serve?
Conquistadors primarily served the Spanish and Portuguese Empires during the 15th and 16th centuries, playing a crucial role in their global expansion.
Where did Conquistadors explore and conquer?
Conquistadors ventured across the globe, exploring and conquering vast territories in the Americas (North, Central, and South), Oceania, Africa, and Asia. They established trade routes and colonies, significantly expanding the reach of their respective empires.
Who were some famous Spanish Conquistadors?
Notable Spanish Conquistadors include Hernán Cortés, who conquered the Aztec Empire; Francisco Pizarro, who subdued the Inca Empire; and Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, who conquered the Muisca in Central Colombia. Many others played significant roles in exploration and settlement.
Who were some famous Portuguese Conquistadors?
Prominent Portuguese Conquistadors include Afonso de Albuquerque, known for his conquests across India, the Persian Gulf, the East Indies, and East Africa; and Filipe de Brito e Nicote, who led conquests into Burma.
What was Hernando de Lerma Polanco known for?
Hernando de Lerma Polanco was a Spanish conqueror, politician, lawyer, and city founder. He is primarily known for his controversial tenure as Governor of Tucumán (in present-day Argentina) and for founding the city of Salta in 1582.
Why was Hernando de Lerma Polanco's time as Governor controversial?
De Lerma's time as Governor of Tucumán was marked by extreme violence, persecution of opponents (including clergy and fellow Spaniards like Francisco Salcedo), and a generally authoritarian rule. Historians describe his administration as a "series of criminal attempts" and "malign."
What city did Hernando de Lerma Polanco fund?
Hernando de Lerma Polanco founded the city of Salta (initially named "Lerma City on Salta Valley") in April 1582, in what is now Argentina. He envisioned it as a crucial economic hub connecting the Viceroyalty of Peru with the port at the Río de la Plata.