Diego Centeno facts for kids
Diego Centeno was a Spanish explorer and soldier, known as a conquistador. He was born in Ciudad Rodrigo, Spain, in 1514. He later died in Chuquisaca, Bolivia, in 1549. Diego Centeno traveled to South America in 1534 when he was just 20 years old. He arrived in the Inca Empire, which had recently been conquered by the Spanish.
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Who Was Diego Centeno?
Diego Centeno was a Spanish soldier who played a part in the history of South America. He joined the Spanish forces exploring and settling new lands. These explorers were called conquistadors. They came from Spain to the Americas in the 1500s.
Early Life and Arrival in South America
Diego Centeno was born in a town called Ciudad Rodrigo in Spain. When he was 20, he sailed across the ocean to South America. He arrived in the lands that were once part of the powerful Inca Empire. Other famous explorers, like Pedro de Alvarado, also arrived around this time. Alvarado was known for his conquests in places like Guatemala.
Diego Centeno's Role in Conflicts
After the Spanish arrived, there were many fights among the Spanish leaders themselves. These conflicts were about who would control the new lands. Diego Centeno became involved in these important battles.
Supporting the Pizarro Family
One major conflict was between the Pizarro brothers and a group led by Diego de Almagro. This group was known as the Almagristas. Diego Centeno chose to support the Pizarro family. He fought for their side in the region known as New Castile.
Later Battles and Royal Forces
The fighting continued even after the first major leaders were defeated. Diego Centeno then joined the Spanish royal forces. These forces were led by Pedro de la Gasca. They were sent by the King of Spain to bring order to the new territories.
The Battle of Huarina
Diego Centeno faced a tough challenge in the battle of Huarina. He was defeated by a strong opponent named Francisco de Carvajal. However, Centeno did not give up. He managed to escape and rejoin Pedro de la Gasca's army.
Victory at Jaquijahuana
Centeno and de la Gasca's forces later fought against Gonzalo Pizarro and Francisco de Carvajal. This important battle was called the battle of Jaquijahuana. In this battle, Diego Centeno and the royal forces won. This victory helped the Spanish crown gain more control over the region.
