jan 1, 1539 - Esteban explores the South West

Description:

Esteban, or Estevanico, was an enslaved Moroccan who worked as a healer, interpreter and go-between. He was enslaved to Captain Andrès de Dorantes but later purchased by Don Antonio de Mendoza to lead an expedition to North America. However, since slaves couldn't lead expeditions, Marcos de Niza was the formal leader.

Esteban travelled a few das ahead of Niza. He managed to convince around 300 Native Americans of his healing powers. They joined him and his mission and gave him gifts.

Soon, Esteban reached Hawikuh, a Zuni pueblo: He sent them a message, stating that he was coming in peace and wanted to heal them. Esteban received a message back, saying that he would not be invited in. Still, Esteban went and was killed. After message of his death reached Niza, he went back to Mexico City.

Despite killing him, Esteban was immortalized by the Zuni people as a black ogre kachina called "Chakwaina". To them. Esteban represented the harbinger of European conquest.

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