Pedro de Valdivia

Mapuche warriors led by Chief Michimalonco attacked and destroyed Santiago in September 1541. Valdivia and his men were forced to flee the city. The Spanish rebuilt the settlement, but the attack marked the beginning of the Arauco War.

Valdivia founded the city of Santiago de la Nueva Extremadura on February 12, 1541, in the Mapocho Valley. The city became the capital of the Captaincy General of Chile and the center of Spanish colonization in the region.

Valdivia was appointed Governor and Captain General of Chile by Francisco Pizarro. He was given authority to conquer and colonize the region south of Peru. He established the first Spanish settlements in Chile and organized the colonial administration.

Valdivia founded the city of Concepci

Valdivia was captured and killed by Mapuche forces led by Lautaro at the Battle of Tucapel on December 25, 1553. According to accounts, he was executed by the Mapuche after refusing to convert to their religion. His death was a major setback for Spanish colonization.