Introduction

In the 17th century, the Spanish established a colony in New Mexico, leading to both integration and conflict with the native Pueblo tribes. This article explores the causes, events, and outcomes of rebellions against Spanish rule, highlighting the significant uprising led by Popé in 1680.

The Cause

From 1598, when settlers from Spain first established New Mexico, the region became a focal point of feudal-style colonization. Spanish settlers settled on land under feudal systems, leading to significant exploitation and resistance among the native Pueblo tribes. These feudal practices, which required food and labor, led to numerous uprisings.

Several notable events shaped the tensions leading to the 1680 uprising. In 1598, Governor Juan de O?ate's harsh response to the Acoma Pueblo attack led to the felling of 500 men and the dismemberment of the feet of every male over 20. More events, such as the arrests and execution of 47 Pueblo Indians in 1675, further fueled discontent and violence.

Key Events Leading to the Uprising

The revolt was orchestrated by a knowledgeable and charismatic leader, Popé. Born to the San Juan tribe, Popé opposed the missionary work of the Spanish monks and began organizing resistance. His speeches and leadership resonated with the tribes affected by the harsh Spanish rule. By 1680, Popé had organized a group of followers who were ready to take action.

The conflict reached a boiling point when a severe drought and continuous Apache raids led to food shortages and increased desperation among the Pueblo tribes. The Spanish were accused of contributing to the widespread misery by demanding food and labor and suppressing the old tribal religion. By early 1680, the conditions were ripe for an uprising.

The Uprising

Popé set the date for August 13, but the news of an impending revolt was revealed to Governor Antonio de Otermín by some tribes. Popé advanced the uprising to August 10, 1680. In just one morning, the Pueblos executed a coordinated attack, destroying churches, killing priests, and driving out most of the Spanish colonists. By August 16, 1680, the Pueblos encircled Santa Fe and overran the city, with 2500 warriors attacking the small remaining Spanish force.

For the next few days, the remaining Spanish fought a desperate battle to escape. With the support of 100 desperate Spaniards, Otermín made a counterattack and managed to escape the city. The Pueblos, victorious, forced the Spanish to retreat to El Paso, leaving behind a catastrophic loss of life and property.

The Aftermath

After the successful uprising, the Pueblos faced their own struggles. Popé, who became the organizer of the uprising, appointed himself governor, but the reign was short-lived. The success of the uprising led to a period of harsher rule by the Pueblos, with their own tyrannical administration. The once-strong alliance was weakened, leading to another Spanish reconquest in 1692.

Nevertheless, the 1680 rebellion had lasting impacts on both sides. For the Pueblos, the experience altered relationships with the Spanish and other European settlers. They destroyed all European goods and strongly resisted attempts at re-colonization. The Catholic Church faced significant backlash, with Indian priests performing de-baptism rituals to free people they believed to be under evil influence.

The rebellion reshaped New Mexico, leaving a complex legacy of resistance, self-governance, and eventual reintegration with Spain. This period remains a pivotal chapter in the history of the American Southwest, highlighting the intertwining of European colonization and native resistance.