List of Spanish governors of New Mexico facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Spanish Governor of New Mexico
Flag of the Viceroyalty of New Spain
Residence	Santa Fe
Appointer	King of Spain
Formation	November 1598; 426 years ago (1598-11)
First holder	Juan de Oñate
Final holder	Facundo Melgares
Abolished	January 1822; 203 years ago (1822-01)
Succession	List of Mexican governors of New Mexico

Map of the province of Nuevo México in 1824

The Spanish Governors of New Mexico were the main leaders of the area known as Santa Fe de Nuevo México (New Mexico). This area was part of New Spain, which was a large Spanish territory in North America. These governors were in charge from 1598, when the first Spanish expedition arrived, until 1822.

In 1822, Mexico became independent from Spain. New Mexico then became a territory of Mexico. Later, in 1846, it became a territory of the United States. Finally, in 1912, New Mexico became a state within the U.S.

A Look at New Mexico's Spanish Past

In 1598, an explorer named Juan de Oñate led an expedition into the area. He helped create the "Royal Road of the Interior Land," also known as El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro. This important road connected Mexico City to a Tewa village called 'Ohkay Owingeh' (now San Juan Pueblo). This marked the start of the Nuevo México Province under the rule of King Philip II of Spain.

Oñate also helped establish the Spanish settlement of San Juan near the Rio Grande. Later, in 1610, Governor Pedro de Peralta founded Santa Fe. This city was built in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains region, also near the Rio Grande.

Spanish leaders set up missions in New Mexico. These missions aimed to convert Pueblo people to Christianity and develop farming. However, the Pueblo people were unhappy. They felt the Spanish were trying to stop their traditional religious practices. They also faced a system where they had to work for the Spanish, which caused much hardship.

The Pueblo Revolt and Its Aftermath

In 1680, the Pueblo Revolt happened. This was a major uprising by the Pueblo people against Spanish rule. After the revolt, a new agreement was reached. This agreement gave the Pueblo people more protection for their culture and religion. They also received large areas of land. A special person was appointed to defend their rights in Spanish courts.

In January 1822, Facundo Melgares was the last Spanish Governor. After Mexico declared its independence, his title changed. He became the "political chief" and "military chief." Melgares then became the first Mexican Governor of New Mexico. He served until July 1822.

Leaders of New Mexico Under Spanish Rule

Here is a list of the governors of the Province of New Mexico when it was part of New Spain:

Early Spanish Governors (1598–1680)

These were the main leaders or governors during the first period of Spanish rule:

Governors During the Pueblo Revolt (1680–1692)

From 1680 to 1692, the Pueblo people took control of their lands. They lived under their own leaders during this time.

Later Spanish Governors (1688–1822)

These are the governors who served after the Pueblo Revolt, as Spanish rule was re-established:

See also

In Spanish: Anexo:Gobernadores de Santa Fe de Nuevo México para niños

	Portal Directory
	Portal Directory
	Portal Directory
	Portal Directory

• History of New Mexico
  • List of Mexican governors of New Mexico (1822–1846)
  • List of U.S. governors of New Mexico (1846–present)

Sources