Urayoán facts for kids

Urayoán was an important Taíno chief, also known as a "Cacique." He is famous for a clever plan he used to find out if the Spanish newcomers were truly gods.

Urayoán was the chief of a region called "Yucayeque del Yagüeka." This area is now located in Puerto Rico, between the towns of Añasco and Mayagüez. His land was bordered by two rivers: the Guaorabo River to the north and the Yagüez River to the south.

Testing the Spanish

In 1511, Urayoán and another brave Taíno chief, Agüeybaná II, came up with a plan. They wanted to discover if the Spanish soldiers were truly immortal, like gods, or if they could be harmed like regular people.

The Plan with Diego Salcedo

A Spanish soldier named Diego Salcedo visited Urayoán's village. Urayoán welcomed him and offered him a place to stay for the night. The next day, Urayoán put his plan into action.

As Salcedo was trying to cross the Guaorabo River, Urayoán ordered his warriors to hold Salcedo underwater. They kept him there to see if he would survive. The Taíno people watched Salcedo's body for three days after this event.

The Discovery and Revolt

After three days, it was clear that Salcedo was not a god; he was a human who could die. This discovery was very important for the Taíno people. Once they knew the Spanish were not gods, Chief Agüeybaná II told the Taínos to fight back. This led to a major revolt against the Spanish.