Blackwell Reference Online

Extract

Jumandi was a prestigious cacique, or Indian chieftain. He converted to Christianity and was familiar with Spanish ways. The importance of Jumandi as a figure in the history of indigenous peoples of Ecuador should be viewed in the historical context following the arrival of the Spaniards in search of wealth in gold and spices, especially cinnamon. The indigenous who fell into the hands of the Spaniards during the Spanish expeditions (from 1534 to 1560) were forced to reveal where the treasures were to be sought. If they did not respond, they were arrested and cruelly murdered. In this process, 16 cities were founded. Compared to the foundation of other cities in the Andean region, this demonstrates the interest of the conquerors in the region of Ecuador. The people from each of these regions were subjected to the cruel exploitation of slavery and feudal court. Faced with this situation, all warlords took up arms against the Spaniards. In 1578 the Quijos revolted to free themselves from oppression. Jumandi, in alliance with other leaders, commanded an army of 5,000 men with the military objective of destroying the cities of Avila, Archidona, and Baeza. In this uprising the Pendes played a leading role. Pendes were sorcerers, shamans, sages, or healers, and they were highly respected by the indigenous. Beto and Guami were the first Pendes who convened all the indigenous to the first ... log in or subscribe to read full text