Tangaxuan II facts for kids

Tzimtzincha-Tangaxuan II (died February 14, 1530) was the last cazonci (monarch or ruler) of the Purépecha Empire. He ruled from 1520 to 1530. When his kingdom made a peace treaty with Hernán Cortés, Tangaxuan II was given the Christian name Francisco. Sadly, his life ended on February 14, 1530, when he was put to death by Nuño Beltrán de Guzmán.

Tangaxuan II: Ruler of the Purépecha Empire

Tangaxuan II became the leader of the Purépecha people in 1520. His empire was a powerful state in what is now Mexico. The Purépecha were also known as the Tarascans. They had a strong army and a rich culture.

How Did Tangaxuan II Meet the Spanish?

When Tangaxuan II heard that the Aztec Empire had fallen to the Spanish, he sent messengers. These messengers went to meet the Spanish conquerors. A few Spanish explorers then traveled back with them to Tzintzuntzan. This was the capital city of the Purépecha Empire.

Gifts and Discoveries

In Tzintzuntzan, the Spanish met Tangaxuan II. They exchanged gifts. The Spanish received samples of gold. This made Hernán Cortés very interested in the Purépecha lands. He wanted to explore and control this wealthy region.

The Spanish Arrive in Purépecha Lands

In 1522, a Spanish group led by Cristóbal de Olid entered Purépecha territory. They reached Tzintzuntzan in just a few days. The Purépecha army was huge, with possibly as many as 100,000 soldiers. But when it was time to fight, they chose not to.

A Peaceful Agreement

Tangaxuan II decided to accept Spanish rule. Because he cooperated, he was allowed to keep much of his power. This led to a unique situation. For several years, both Cortés and Tangaxuan II saw themselves as rulers of the Michoacán area. The people living there paid taxes to both of them.

The End of Tangaxuan II's Rule

Later, Nuño Beltrán de Guzmán became the president of the first Spanish court in Mexico. He decided to lead a large group of 5,000 to 8,000 men. They marched into northwestern Mexico, looking for new groups of people to control.

A New Alliance Against the Cazonci

When Guzmán arrived in Michoacán, he found that Tangaxuan II was still the real ruler of his empire. Guzmán then made a deal with a Purépecha noble named Don Pedro Panza. Don Pedro Panza was also known as Cuinierángari. They worked together against Tangaxuan II.

Tangaxuan II's Final Days

Tangaxuan II was captured. His life ended on February 14, 1530. After his passing, a time of trouble and unrest began. For many years, the Spanish government put other Purépecha leaders in charge. These new leaders had to follow Spanish orders.

A Legendary Princess

There is a legend that Tangaxuan II was the father of a princess named Princess Eréndira. However, there are no old writings or records that prove she really existed.

See also

In Spanish: Tangáxoan Tzíntzicha para niños