Juan de Zaldívar (Spanish soldier) facts for kids

Juan de Zaldívar (born around 1570 – died 1598) was a Spanish soldier and explorer. He was one of the first people to help colonize the area we now call New Mexico. Sadly, he was killed by Native Americans during his explorations.

Early Life and Family

Juan de Zaldívar was born around 1570 in Northern Mexico. His father, Vicente de Zaldívar Sr., was also a soldier. He fought in a conflict called the Mixtón War between 1540 and 1542. Juan's great-uncle, Cristóbal de Oñate, also fought in this war. Juan's mother was Magdalena de Mendoza y Salazar. He had a brother named Vicente de Zaldívar. Their uncle, Juan de Oñate, was also their second cousin.

Exploring New Mexico

In 1595, Juan de Zaldívar's uncle, Juan de Oñate, asked him to join an important expedition. Zaldívar was to be the Maestre de Campo, which means he was a high-ranking military leader. Their goal was to colonize New Mexico for the Spanish Crown.

They started their journey from Santa Bárbara, Chihuahua in January 1598. By April of the same year, they reached Ciudad Juárez. They then traveled north along the Rio Grande river. On July 11, 1598, they arrived at a place they called San Juan de los Caballeros. Today, this place is known as Ohkay Owingeh, New Mexico.

His Death

Juan de Zaldívar died on December 4, 1598. He was killed by people from the Acoma Pueblo in Acoma Pueblo, New Mexico. After his death, his brother, Vicente de Zaldívar, led a conflict known as the Acoma Massacre. This conflict was partly to avenge Juan's death.