Luis de Velasco facts for kids

The name Luis de Velasco belongs to several important people from history, especially two who played a big role in the early days of New Spain, which is now Mexico. They were father and son, and both served as viceroys, a bit like a governor or a king's representative, in the Spanish colonies.

Who Were the Velascos?

Luis de Velasco, the Elder (1511–1564)

Luis de Velasco was born in Spain around 1511. He became the second viceroy of New Spain in 1550. This was a very important job! He was sent by the King of Spain to govern the vast lands that Spain had claimed in the Americas.

As viceroy, Luis de Velasco worked to protect the native people. He tried to stop them from being treated unfairly. He also helped to build new towns and schools. He even helped to start the Royal and Pontifical University of Mexico, one of the oldest universities in the Americas. He died in Mexico City in 1564, still serving as viceroy.

Luis de Velasco, the Younger (c.1534–1617)

Luis de Velasco, the Younger, was the son of the first Luis de Velasco. He was born around 1534. He followed in his father's footsteps and also became a viceroy of New Spain, not once, but twice! His first time was from 1590 to 1595.

During his time as viceroy, he worked to improve the economy of New Spain. He also helped to organize expeditions to explore new lands. Later, he served as viceroy of Peru for a few years. He returned to New Spain for his second term as viceroy from 1607 to 1611. He was known for being fair and for trying to make life better for everyone in the colony. He passed away in 1617.

Why Were They Important?

Both Luis de Velasco, the Elder, and Luis de Velasco, the Younger, were very important figures in the history of Mexico. They helped shape the early colonial period. They worked to establish Spanish rule while also trying to bring some order and fairness to the new lands. Their actions had a lasting impact on the development of New Spain.

See also

In Spanish: Luis de Velasco para niños