Baltazar de Cordes facts for kids

Baltazar de Cordes (born in the 1500s – died January 3, 1601) was a Dutch privateer. A privateer was like a sailor who was allowed by their government to attack enemy ships during wartime. Baltazar fought against the Spanish in the early 1600s. He was also the brother of another famous sailor, Simon de Cordes.

Baltazar was born in the Netherlands in the mid-1500s. He started sailing for his home country against Spain during a big conflict called the Eighty Years' War. This war was when the Netherlands fought for its independence from Spanish rule.

Journey to the Pacific Ocean

Baltazar de Cordes might have traveled to the Pacific Ocean as part of a large expedition in 1598. This journey was organized by the Magellano Company. Their goal was to sail all the way around South America.

The expedition had five ships and was led by Admiral Jacques Mahu. One of these ships was named the Liefde, which means "Love" or "Charity". This ship eventually reached Japan in the year 1600. A famous English pilot named William Adams was among the crew members who survived this long voyage. Baltazar took over as captain after Captain Jurriaan van Bokholt passed away in 1599, shortly after they had sailed through the Straits of Magellan.

Battles in Chile

In late 1599, Baltazar de Cordes and his crew took control of a Spanish town called Castro in Chile. Then, in April 1600, Cordes worked together with Dutch and local native forces. They managed to capture Chiloé Island, which is off the coast of Patagonia in Chile.

However, the Spanish army fought back and recaptured the city. Cordes' forces lost many people in this battle. Most of the Dutch sailors were captured or killed, with only 23 surviving. Sadly, over 300 native people, who were likely from the Huilliche group, also lost their lives.

Death

Baltazar de Cordes died on January 3, 1601.

See also

In Spanish: Baltazar de Cordes para niños