Lope de Aguirre, a Spanish conquistador of the Basque region of Spain, wrote what is known as the “Letter to King Philip of Spain.” It was a letter written in July 1561 in Spanish America to King Philip (presumably private because it was addressed to the King himself from Aguirre.) At this time historically Lope de Aguirre had joined the expedition in search of El Dorado. Pedro de Ursúa had accompanied him on this voyage to the city of gold. However, not even a year after, Aguirre assisted in plotting the death of, and killing Pedro de Ursúa. After overthrowing Ursúa, Aguirre and his accomplices captured Margarita Island and convinced the people to sign an act that would make him prince of Peru, Chile, and Terra Ferma (p.8-9).
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I believe this was saved to convey how individuals were treated in the 1560’s, showcase how strongly they felt about being respected, provide us with a different point of view, and reveal the character of a superior who lacked many respectable qualities. Although Lope de Aguirre was just one man, he spoke up for many. He was a man who was pushed to his limit in a society that was full of too much rage and disrespect and un-appreciation. This letter teaches us that an influential person’s character can have a great impact on others. Therefore, one of high authority should treat those in his/her surroundings in a kind manner rather than in an unjust way because if one does not, their actions will sooner or later result in a backlash and a faulty reputation among the people. It not only contains a significant lesson, but it is significant in history because of those involved. Aguirre was a well-known conquistador who not only spoke out verbally, but began a rebellion against King Philip until death (p.10). The Crown’s reaction to this letter is unknown, but it is almost certain that Lope de Aguirre was captured and killed by the time King Philip actually received it (p.9). Even though the response is not known, the significance of the document as well as the lesson learned is still relevant
The basis of …show more content…
I believe this was saved to convey how individuals were treated in the 1560’s, showcase how strongly they felt about being respected, provide us with a different point of view, and reveal the character of a superior who lacked many respectable qualities. Although Lope de Aguirre was just one man, he spoke up for many. He was a man who was pushed to his limit in a society that was full of too much rage and disrespect and un-appreciation. This letter teaches us that an influential person’s character can have a great impact on others. Therefore, one of high authority should treat those in his/her surroundings in a kind manner rather than in an unjust way because if one does not, their actions will sooner or later result in a backlash and a faulty reputation among the people. It not only contains a significant lesson, but it is significant in history because of those involved. Aguirre was a well-known conquistador who not only spoke out verbally, but began a rebellion against King Philip until death (p.10). The Crown’s reaction to this letter is unknown, but it is almost certain that Lope de Aguirre was captured and killed by the time King Philip actually received it (p.9). Even though the response is not known, the significance of the document as well as the lesson learned is still relevant