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The Conquest of Guatemala: Alvarado's Maya War
Season 4
Episode 181
Published 2 weeks, 5 days ago
Description
In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the brutal campaign by Pedro de Alvarado to conquer the Maya highlands of Guatemala. They delve into the battle against the K'iche' at Quetzaltenango, the legendary figure of Tecún Umán, the shifting alliances with Kaqchikel and Tz'utujil peoples, and the founding of Santiago de los Caballeros. The conversation examines the use of Tlaxcalan allies, the encomienda system's rapid imposition, and the bloody suppression of indigenous revolts. They also touch on the legacy of Alvarado's actions and the long-term impact on Maya society.