Nachi Cocom facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Nachi Cocom
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20th century representation by Fernando Castro Pacheco in Mérida’s Governor’s Palace
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| Sotuta Kuchkabal leader | |
| Succeeded by | Lorenzo Cocom |
| Halach Uinik | |
| Personal details | |
| Died | 1562 Yucatán, New Spain |
| Children | Francisco Cocom |
| Mother tongue | Yucatec Maya |
| Nickname | Juan Cocom |
| Military service | |
| Battles/wars | Battle of T’ho |
Nachi Cocom (died 1562) was a powerful leader of the Maya people. He was known to the Spanish explorers as Juan Cocom. He led the Sotuta region, called a kuchkabal, in what is now Yucatán, Mexico.
Nachi Cocom came from the important Cocom family. This family had led the League of Mayapan in earlier times. He is famous for leading his people to fight against the Spanish conquistadors. These were explorers and soldiers who came to conquer new lands.
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Who Was Nachi Cocom?
Nachi Cocom was a halach uinik, which means a "real man" or "true ruler" in the Maya language. This was the highest position for a leader in the Maya government and religion. He was in charge of the Sotuta kuchkabal, which was like a small state or kingdom.
A Leader of the Maya People
The Cocom family had a long history of leadership among the Maya. Nachi Cocom continued this tradition. He was a respected figure who guided his people. His main goal was to protect his land and culture.
Fighting the Spanish
When the Spanish arrived in Yucatán, they wanted to take control. Nachi Cocom did not want to give up his people's freedom. He organized a strong resistance against the Spanish forces. These forces were led by Francisco de Montejo the Younger.
The Battle of T'ho
Nachi Cocom led his warriors in a major battle. This fight happened at the ruins of T’ho. Today, this area is the center of the city of Mérida, Yucatán. The battle took place on June 10–11, 1542. Despite their bravery, Nachi Cocom's forces were defeated.
After the Battle
Nachi Cocom survived the battle. Eventually, he decided to accept Spanish rule. He was baptized and took the Christian name Juan Cocom. He died in 1562 in Yucatán.
The "Last" Maya Leader?
Some people consider Nachi Cocom to be the "last" halach uinik of the Maya. This is because he was one of the last major leaders to fight the Spanish in Yucatán. However, other Maya groups, like the Itzá of Nojpetén, continued to resist. They fought against Spanish control until 1697.
See also
In Spanish: Nachi Cocom para niños
