A comparative analysis of the foundations of the city of Monterrey in the 16th century (1582 and 1596)

Abstract

This paper offers a comparative analysis of the foundations of the city of Monterrey in the late sixteenth century, focusing on the initiatives led by Luis de Carvajal y de la Cueva and Diego de Montemayor. Its main objective is to demonstrate that Monterrey’s origin was not the result of a single founding act, but rather a complex historical process shaped by failed attempts, later consolidation efforts, and persistent colonial ambitions. The study also aims to highlight the importance of religious patronage as a legitimizing element of colonial projects and to examine conflicts with indigenous peoples as decisive factors in the success or failure of early settlements. The research is based on primary sources from the Archivo General del Estado de Nuevo León (General Archive of the State of Nuevo León) and the Archivo Municipal de Monterrey (Municipal Archive of Monterrey), as well as on historiographical Works by authors such as Israel Cavazos, Eugenio del Hoyo, and Samuel Temkin. One of the main contributions of this work is the historiographical reappraisal of overlooked figures such as Luis de Carvajal and Alberto del Canto, offering a broader and more critical understanding of Monterrey’s origins and of the colonial process in northeastern New Spain.

The research is based on primary sources from the General Archive of the State of Nuevo León and the Municipal Archive of Monterrey, as well as on specialized historiography by authors such as Israel Cavazos, Eugenio del Hoyo, and Samuel Temkin. One of the main contributions of this work is the historiographical reappraisal of overlooked figures such as Luis de Carvajal and Alberto del Canto, offering a broader and more critical understanding of Monterrey’s origins and of the colonial process in northeastern New Spain.