Assignment 4A

The Colonial Period, from 1492 to 1810 is representative of the era that molded Latin America into what we know it to be today – and that does not necessarily mean that is a good thing.
Oppression, disease and exploitation were the primary methods of European invaders, especially the Spanish that were used to reduce the culture and history of the indigenous people next to extinction.

The topic I chose to explore was Junipero Serra of Mallorca. The reason I chose this topic was because I have often heard of Junipero Serra or Junipero Serra of Mallorca but never understood who or what this phrase was in reference too. So that made this choice easy.
Here are three facts I found interesting about this topic:

The Father Junipero Serra – a Spanish Franciscan Priest was the man who founded and established the first of what would become nine missions in California. During his travel along the west coast of America he became recognized as a prolific speaker and an effective teacher in teaching the catechism to the indigenous people.

While Father Junipero Serra is held in high esteem in many circles, there is a side to his history that could be considered shameful. As one of the first Spanish settlers on the West Coast, he and his comrades played a role in the above mentioned oppression of Native Americans – colonial zing them and suppressing their culture in the interest of inculcating the European religious ideologies.

The last item I think is worth mentioning and I find admirable is that regardless of whether or not you agree with the teachings of some individuals, I think it is worthy to note the sacrifice and obstacles endured to deliver what they thought to be worth sharing. As I mentioned he traveled throughout California and Mexico – often by mule or walking. He feel off a mule shortly after arriving in America and the subsequent injury was one that would follow him for years to come. Unfortunately, he died at the age of 71 by the bite of a serpent of all things.
Ironic.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXdGy1WtQ_4

http://www.iknow-majorca.co.uk/tourist_information/mallorca_holidays/inca_mallorca/biography_junipero_serra.htm

http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1E1-Serra-Ju.html