Alonso Hernández Puertocarrero facts for kids

Alonso Hernández Puertocarrero (born before 1495, died 1523) was a Spanish explorer and soldier. He was an important part of Hernán Cortés's journey to conquer what is now Mexico. This journey is known as the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire.

Early Days in Mexico

Soon after arriving in Mexico, Alonso Hernández Puertocarrero received a special gift. This was a grey horse from Cortés. Hernández was then chosen to be an alcayde (a type of mayor or leader). He shared this role with Francisco de Montejo in the new settlement of Villa Rica de la Vera Cruz. This was one of the first Spanish towns in Mexico.

Important Gifts and Roles

After a battle called the Battle of Centla at Potonchán, the Spanish made a peace agreement. As part of this agreement, several people were given to the Spaniards. One of these people was a woman named Malinche. Cortés first gave Malinche to Hernández to help him.

However, Cortés soon realized that Malinche was very special. She could speak both Nahuatl (the language of the Aztecs) and Chontal Mayan. This made her an amazing translator and helper for Cortés. Because of her skills, Cortés took Malinche back to be his main interpreter. She was very important for understanding the local people and their cultures.

Later, Hernández received another gift. This was the daughter of a Totonac chief named Cuesco. Hernández had her baptized, and she was given the name Doña Francisca.

Journey Back to Spain

Alonso Hernández Puertocarrero also had another very important task. Cortés sent him and Francisco de Montejo back to Spain. Their mission was to tell King Charles all about the expedition. They shared details of the new lands and the discoveries made in Mexico.

See also

In Spanish: Alonso Hernández Portocarrero para niños