Indian ConquistadorsAlexis Gibson

Conquest of Guatemala was initiated in 1524 and lead by Pedro Alvarado.

The Spaniards defeated the K’iche and were able to establish their capital in the valley of Guatemala.

Many colonists & separate militaries were involved in the conquest of central America.

Pedro Alvarado’s army had about 6 thousand allies and slaves.

In 1526 Alvarado left for Spain leaving Pedro Portocarrero and Hernan carillo in charge of Guatemala.

Jorge de Alvarado (related) took control in march 1527.

He was able to keep the Spaniards in control of the region.

In the year 1570, 20 thousand Texcoca and Mexicano soldiers came to help.

Of the 20 thousand only 7 thousand made it. The majority were killed or too injured to carry on.

In the mid 16th century many Spaniards argued that the conquest would not have happened without the help of non- Maya allies.

The conquistadors of central America were rewarded greatly. Some were given small towns and land.