The Legacy of Juan Garrido, Black Conquistador

Juan Garrido, born around 1480 in the Kingdom of Kongo, was a remarkable figure in history, recognized as the first documented Bantu person in what is now the United States. His journey took him from West Central Africa to Portugal, where he converted to Catholicism and adopted the Spanish name Juan Garrido, which means “Handsome John.” Interestingly, he was the first known free African to reach North America.

Garrido became involved in the Spanish conquests under Diego Velázquez in Cuba and later with Juan Ponce de León in Florida. By 1519, he joined Hernán Cortés during his expedition to present-day Mexico, taking part in the significant siege of Tenochtitlan. After this, he made Mexico City his home, where he distinguished himself as the first known farmer to successfully plant wheat in America. His service didn’t stop there; he remained active with Spanish forces for over three decades, participating in expeditions to western Mexico and the Pacific.

While Juan Garrido is often highlighted as a prime example of a black conquistador, it’s important to recognize that the presence of Africans and mixed-race individuals amongst Hispanic ranks had already become quite common within a decade of the 16th century. Other notable black conquistadors included figures like Beatriz de Palacios and Juan Valiente, showcasing that Garrido was part of a broader trend.

As Garrido ventured into new territories, he left quite an impression on the Mesoamericans, who referred to black individuals as teucacatzactli, meaning “black deities” in Nahuatl. His association with Hernán Cortés began in 1519, and some historians suggest he might have been connected to a conquistador named Pedro Garrido, a common practice where Spaniards would give their surnames to black associates, whether they were free or enslaved.

There’s some debate regarding whether Garrido arrived with the initial contingent of Pánfilo de Narváez or later aligned with Cortés once Narváez’s troops deserted him. Regardless of the particular circumstances of his arrival, Garrido became an integral part of the Spanish advancement in the New World.

Historians also propose that Juan Garrido might be another name for Juan Cortés, a black slave mentioned in early Spanish chronicles. In a noteworthy account, during a retreat from the Aztecs, a lone Aztec warrior called out a challenge. This moment showcased not only the chaos of the time but the bravery and presence of black figures in these significant historical events.

By 1520, after the fall of Tenochtitlan, Garrido took steps to commemorate the lives lost during the conflicts by building a chapel, which is now known as the Church of San Hipólito. He and his wife eventually settled in Mexico City, raising three children together. His agricultural efforts are particularly remarkable, as he is credited with the first successful wheat harvest in New Spain.

Throughout the 1520s, Garrido actively participated in expeditions to regions such as Michoacán alongside other black allies under Nuño de Guzmán’s leadership. After years of service, by 1538, he sought recognition from the King of Spain, requesting a pension for his three decades of hard work and contributions.

“I, Juan Garrido, black in color, resident of this city, appear before Your Mercy…” he started, detailing his extensive service in the conquests and pacifications of New Spain, mentioning how he undertook many of these endeavors at his own expense. His passionate plea did not go unheard; he ultimately received compensation, including land and money, acknowledging his contributions to the Spanish efforts in the New World.

Overall, Juan Garrido’s story is a powerful testament to the complexities of history, showcasing the integral roles played by individuals often overlooked in traditional narratives. His legacy reminds us of the contributions of Afro-Spaniards in shaping the early history of North America.