Famous Spanish Soldiers

Hernán Cortés was a Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that resulted in the fall of the Aztec Empire and the expansion of Spanish rule in mainland Mexico. He played a key role in the early Spanish colonization of the Americas, using strategic alliances with indigenous peoples and military prowess to achieve his goals. Cortés defied orders from the governor of Cuba, fought and won battles, and ultimately overthrew the Aztec Empire. He was later awarded the title of Marquess of the Valley of Oaxaca for his achievements.

Lope de Aguirre was a Basque Spanish conquistador known for his final expedition down the Amazon River in search of El Dorado and Omagua. He led a mutiny against the expedition's commander, Pedro de Orsúa, and declared his intent to overthrow Spain's colonial government. Aguirre defied the Spanish monarch, renouncing his vassalage and declaring war upon the Habsburg monarch. His professional life is marked by cruelty and treachery in colonial Spanish America, leading to his portrayal as an antihero in various art forms.

José Sanjurjo y Sacanell was a Spanish general known for his involvement in the military and political events leading up to the Spanish Civil War. He led a failed coup in 1932 and was later amnestied in 1934. During the 1936 coup, Sanjurjo played a role from exile in Portugal but tragically died in an air crash just three days into the conflict. He was considered a potential leader of the Nationalist faction but never had the chance to fulfill that role.

Bernal Díaz del Castillo was a Spanish conquistador who played a crucial role in the conquest of the Aztec Empire under Hernán Cortés. Before joining Cortés, he had already gained experience as a soldier in expeditions to Tierra Firme, Cuba, and Yucatán. Castillo later became an encomendero and governor in Guatemala, where he wrote his memoirs, criticizing accounts that he believed glorified Cortés unfairly. Despite feeling discontent with his lack of wealth and recognition, Castillo's memoirs are regarded as a valuable historical source on the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs.

Blas de Lezo was a renowned Spanish navy officer known for his exceptional leadership and strategic brilliance. Despite sustaining debilitating injuries, including the loss of an eye, hand, and leg, he viewed his scars as badges of honor. His greatest achievement was the decisive victory over a formidable British fleet at the Battle of Cartagena de Indias in 1741. Lezo's unwavering courage, tactical acumen, and unwavering dedication to his duty solidified his reputation as one of Spain's most heroic and esteemed naval commanders.

Pánfilo de Narváez was a Spanish conquistador and soldier known for his involvement in the conquest of Cuba, as well as leading expeditions in the Americas. His career included participating in the conquest of Cuba, escorting Bartolomé de las Casas on an expedition to Camagüey, and leading two notable failed expeditions. He is best remembered for his leadership in these expeditions, particularly the Narváez expedition, which resulted in his death. Despite facing defeat and capture, his legacy lives on in the history of Spanish exploration in the Americas.

Antonio Tejero Molina is a former lieutenant colonel of the Guardia Civil in Spain. He is best known for his involvement in the failed coup d'état on 23 February 1981, which targeted the newly established democratic government. Tejero's actions during the coup attempt made him a central figure in this turbulent period of Spanish history. Following the failed coup, he faced legal consequences and was sentenced to prison for his role in the attempted overthrow of the government.

Diego de Almagro was a Spanish conquistador known for his significant contributions to the Spanish conquest of Peru and western South America. He played a key role in subduing the Inca Empire and establishing Spanish cities in present-day Ecuador and Peru. Almagro led the first Spanish military expedition to central Chile and was involved in a civil war with Francisco Pizarro over control of Cuzco. Despite his military prowess, Almagro was ultimately defeated by the Pizarro brothers in the battle of Las Salinas and subsequently executed in 1538.

Agustina of Aragón was a Spanish woman known for her courageous actions during the Peninsular War. She initially defended Spain as a civilian and later became a professional officer in the Spanish Army. Her bravery and dedication earned her the nickname "the Spanish Joan of Arc." Agustina's professional life was marked by her unwavering commitment to defending her country, which inspired folklore, mythology, and artwork depicting her heroic deeds, including sketches by Francisco Goya and mentions in the poetry of Lord Byron.

Garcilaso de la Vega, a Spanish soldier and poet, played a pivotal role in introducing Italian Renaissance verse forms, poetic techniques, and themes to Spain. He achieved widespread recognition in poetic circles during his lifetime and has enjoyed enduring popularity. His poetry was published posthumously in 1543 and has since been the focus of numerous annotated editions. Known for his significant influence on Spanish poetry, Garcilaso de la Vega's professional legacy as a poet continues to be celebrated to this day.

Gonzalo Pizarro was a Spanish conquistador known for his role in the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. He followed in the footsteps of his older half-brother Francisco Pizarro and played a significant role in the exploration and conquest of South America. He led expeditions in search of the legendary El Dorado, eventually becoming governor of Quito. Pizarro's career was marked by both successes and controversies, including conflicts with fellow conquistadors and clashes with indigenous populations.

Francesc Macià i Llussà was a Catalan politician and former officer in the Spanish Army. He served as the 122nd president of the Generalitat of Catalonia. Throughout his career, Macià transitioned from advocating for the regeneration of Spain to championing the defense of the Catalan Republic. He played a pivotal role in restoring the Generalitat and successfully establishing self-government for Catalonia, marking a significant milestone in its modern history.

Pedro de Mendoza was a Spanish conquistador, soldier, and explorer known for his role as the first adelantado of New Andalusia. He led expeditions in the Americas, participating in the Spanish conquest of the region. Mendoza played a key role in establishing Spanish presence and control in the New World, contributing to the expansion of the Spanish Empire. His leadership and military skills were instrumental in the early exploration and colonization efforts in South America.

Frey Nicolás de Ovando, a Spanish soldier and Knight of the Order of Alcántara, served as the Governor of the Indies (Hispaniola) from 1502 to 1509. He was appointed by the Spanish crown to restore order and investigate the previous administration. Ovando enforced control through force, subduing native Americans and rebellious Spaniards. Disorderly colonists were sent back to Spain in chains under his rule. He implemented the encomienda system with the native Taíno population during his tenure.

Sebastián de Belalcázar, also known as Sebastián Moyano y Cabrera, was a Spanish conquistador known for founding important colonial cities in northwestern South America. He established cities such as Quito, Cali, Pasto, and Popayán in the 16th century. Belalcázar led expeditions in present-day Ecuador and Colombia, playing a significant role in the Spanish conquest of the region. Despite facing challenges, he successfully founded several key cities before passing away due to natural causes after being sentenced to death in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia.

Alonso de Ercilla y Zúñiga was a Spanish soldier and poet known for his epic poem "La Araucana." During his time in Chile, he fought against the Araucanians and was inspired to write this epic work, which is considered one of the greatest of the Spanish Golden Age. Divided into three parts, it celebrates the violence of the conquistadors and the courage of the Araucanians. Ercilla's professional life was marked by his military service and his significant contribution to Spanish literature through "La Araucana."

Baltazar de Zúñiga y Velasco was a Spanish royal favourite of Philip III and Philip IV. He served as a key minister in two Spanish governments and controlled foreign policy from 1618 to 1622. Zúñiga played a significant role in Spain's involvement in the early stages of the Thirty Years War and was instrumental in appointing his nephew, the Count-Duke of Olivares, as prime minister during the reign of Philip IV. He was one of the few royal favourites of the period to pass away while still in favor.