A Maya Noble Witness to the Yucatan Conquest

Gaspar Antonio Chi Xiu served as an interpreter for Spanish conquistadors and friars during the conquest of the Maya. He was a bridge between two worlds. In order to help his people preserve their land and tradition, he learned the languages and nature of the conquering settlers. More often than not, he was torn between opposing cultures.

Gaspar was called a traitor by some; while others consider him to be a defender and protector of his ancestral race. Gaspar’s life story offers a Maya noble’s perspective on the early years of conquest in Yucatan---a much different version than that told by the Spanish colonial chroniclers.