1539: Don Carlos Ometochtzin, Aztec heretic

ExecutedToday.com ^ | November 30, 2010 | Headsman

[CheshireTheCat]

On this date in 1539, the Spanish Inquisition had Aztec noble Don Carlos Ometochtzin (or Don Carlos Chichimecatecuhi, or Don Carlos Ahuachpitzactzin) burned at the stake for reverting to the pre-Columbian indigenous religion.

Just another Mesoamerican depredation?

Surprisingly, this execution stands out as an exception in the first generations of its conquest. It even cost the first bishop of Mexico, Juan de Zumarraga, a reprimand for his excess severity. Why?

Certainly any European Christian would have had trouble with the Inquisition if, like Don Carlos (Spanish Wikipedia entry | English), he had been caught with idols of Xipe Totec in his place.

But it was precisely the point that these weren’t Europeans. In 16th century “New Spain,” syncretisms of Christianity and the native Mexican cults still in living memory were the norm, a scenario recalling early Christianity co-opting the pagan rites it supplanted.*....

[Eagles6]

Only 47 years after Columbus landed.

The Aztecs were truly horrific and many previously subjugated tribes allied with the few Spanish to conquer them.

Quite incredible, really.

[GOP Poet]

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[GOP Poet]

Fascinating times indeed when it comes to the intersection of Christianity and the local mores and forms of worship of the locals. And the merging/dissection of religions, practices, and beliefs overtime.

Our early history with the Spanish in the Americas is really interesting to me especially as a coastal Californian and not often explored.

But the particular area mentioned in your article. Man it is amazing to think and read about these two worlds and their initial days together. Incredibly intriguing culture.

[Oshkalaboomboom]

I remember seeing Pre Colombian pottery statue that was found of a prisoner, tied to a tree with the skin of his face peeled off and grimacing in agony as a crow was pecking our his eye. Man’s inhumanity to man is timeless and universal.