Gonzalo de Alvarado facts for kids

Gonzalo de Alvarado y Contreras was a Spanish explorer and soldier, also known as a conquistador. He was the brother of Pedro de Alvarado, another famous conquistador. Gonzalo played a key role in the Spanish campaigns in Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador. He even helped to establish San Salvador, which is now the capital city of El Salvador.

Gonzalo de Alvarado was born in a place called Badajoz in Spain. His father was Diego Gómez de Alvarado y Mexía de Sandoval, and his mother was Leonor de Contreras y Gutiérrez de Trejo.

In 1510, Gonzalo traveled to the island of Hispaniola (which today includes Haiti and the Dominican Republic). He went with his older brother Pedro, his younger brothers Jorge, Gómez, Hernando, and Juan, and their uncle Diego.

Conquering El Salvador

Gonzalo de Alvarado became very important during the conquest of El Salvador. His brother, Pedro de Alvarado, was leading the fight but got badly hurt in his left leg. Because of his injury, Pedro had to stop fighting. He then chose Gonzalo to take over and finish the job.

Gonzalo de Alvarado successfully continued the conquest. By 1525, the Spanish had taken control of El Salvador. That same year, the city of San Salvador was officially founded. This was a major achievement for Gonzalo.

Later Life and Legacy

Gonzalo de Alvarado's family line continued through the Vides de Alvarado family. Important historians from the 17th century, like Francisco Antonio de Fuentes y Guzmán and Domingo Juarros y Montufar, wrote about his descendants.

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See also

In Spanish: Gonzalo de Alvarado para niños