Luis Oacpicagigua facts for kids

Luis Oacpicagigua (pronounced O-ak-pee-ka-GEE-gwa), also known as Luis of Sáric, was an important leader of the Pima people (also called Akimel O'odham). His name in the O'odham language, O'odham: Brain Splicer, means someone who is very wise or clever. He lived in a place called Sáric, which was then part of a Spanish province and is now in the northern part of Sonora, a state in Mexico. Luis Oacpicagigua first worked with the Spanish government, even fighting alongside them against other tribes. However, he later led a major uprising against the Spanish, known as the 1751 Pima Revolt. The revolt ended in 1752, and Luis Oacpicagigua was taken into custody. He passed away in a jail in Horcasitas in 1755.

Who Was Luis Oacpicagigua?

A Leader of the Pima People

Luis Oacpicagigua was a respected leader among the Pima people, also known as the Akimel O'odham. This group of Native Americans has lived for a very long time in what is now the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Leaders like Luis were important for guiding their communities and making decisions.

Working with the Spanish Government

For a time, Luis Oacpicagigua held a special position. He was known as a "provincial Indian governor." This meant he was a leader recognized by both his own people and the Spanish government. In this role, he helped manage affairs in his region. He even joined forces with the Spanish to fight against other Native American tribes that were considered enemies by the Spanish.

The Pima Revolt

Why the Rebellion Started

Even though Luis Oacpicagigua had worked with the Spanish, things changed. Many Pima people, including Luis, became unhappy with how the Spanish treated them. There were disagreements over land, resources, and the way the Spanish tried to change their culture. These tensions grew until they led to a major uprising.

Leading the Uprising

In 1751, Luis Oacpicagigua became the main leader of a large rebellion known as the Pima Revolt. This was a serious challenge to Spanish control in the region. The Pima people fought bravely for their freedom and their way of life.

The End of the Revolt

The Pima Revolt lasted for some time, but it eventually came to an end in 1752. The Spanish forces were stronger, and they managed to put down the rebellion. After the revolt failed, Luis Oacpicagigua and another important leader, Luis of Pitic, were called in for questioning. They were then arrested by the Spanish authorities.

Luis Oacpicagigua's Final Years

After his arrest, Luis Oacpicagigua was held in a jail in a place called Horcasitas. He remained imprisoned there until his death in 1755. His life story shows the complex relationship between Native American communities and the European powers during that time. He is remembered as a leader who fought for his people.