Martín de Córdoba y Velasco, marqués de Cortes facts for kids
Martín de Córdoba y Velasco was an important Spanish nobleman and military leader who lived in the 1500s. He was known for his bravery in battles and for serving as a governor and viceroy for the Spanish Crown. He held the title of Marqués de Cortes. He passed away in 1604.
Contents
A Life of Service
Early Life and Family
Martín de Córdoba y Velasco was the third son of a powerful family. His father was Martín Alonso Fernández de Córdoba Montemayor y Velasco, who was the Count of Alcaudete. His mother was Maria Leonor Pacheco.
Captured in Battle
Martín de Córdoba faced a very difficult challenge early in his military career. In 1558, he took part in a major military campaign called the Expedition of Mostaganem (1558). This expedition ended badly for the Spanish forces. During this battle, his father was killed. Martín de Córdoba himself was captured and became a prisoner. He was held as a Christian slave in Algiers by a ruler named Hasan Pasha.
He remained a prisoner until his brother, Alfonso de Córdoba y Velasco, arranged for his freedom. His brother paid a very large sum of money, 23,000 escudos, as a ransom to get him back.
A Brave Leader
After his release, Martín de Córdoba continued to serve Spain with courage. He showed great bravery in 1563 when he helped defend the cities of Oran and Mers El Kébir. These cities were under attack, and Martín de Córdoba played a key role in pushing back the invaders during the Sieges of Oran and Mers El Kébir.
Important Roles
Martín de Córdoba held several important positions during his life:
- Governor of Oran: From 1575 to 1585, he served as the Spanish governor of Oran. A governor is a leader who manages a region or city on behalf of the king.
- Viceroy of Navarre: Later, between 1589 and 1595, he was the Viceroy of Navarre. A viceroy is a high-ranking official who rules a country or province as the representative of a monarch.
Family Life
Martín de Córdoba y Velasco married Jerónima de Navarra y Enríquez de la Carra. She was also known as the Marquesa de Cortes. He died in the year 1604.
See also
In Spanish: Martín de Córdoba y Velasco para niños
