Description
Foundation of the city of Buenos Aires
Book summary
This work offers a documented analysis of the origin of the Argentine capital, focusing on the second foundation carried out by Juan de Garay on June 11, 1580. The author examines the historical circumstances surrounding this event, from the failure of Pedro de Mendoza's first settlement to the definitive urban layout. Through historical documents, the book reconstructs the figure of the founder and the context of the era, providing the reader with a rigorous and accessible vision of one of the foundational milestones of South America.
What is it about?
The book recounts the two foundations of Buenos Aires: the first, in 1536 by Pedro de Mendoza, which was abandoned and destroyed in 1541 due to constant indigenous threats; and the second, in 1580, when Juan de Garay definitively established the city. The work describes how Garay drew up an urban design of 250 rectangular blocks, designed to favor trade and the safety of the inhabitants. The initial structure of the territory, based on agricultural holdings, and the development of the historic center as an architectural nucleus are detailed. In addition, an analysis of the foundational act, the original of which was deteriorated, is included, and the oldest documents preserved in the Cabildo books since 1594 are examined.
Main topics
- Foundation and refoundation of cities in Spanish colonial America
- Historical biography of Juan de Garay (1528-1583) as an explorer and founder
- Critical analysis of historical documents and foundational acts
- Colonial urbanism: layout of rectangular blocks and defensive planning
- Conflicts between colonizers and native peoples in the Río de la Plata
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at students and professionals of history, especially those interested in the history of Argentina and Latin America. It is also very useful for researchers working with documentary sources from the colonial period. Likewise, it is recommended reading for anyone who wishes to understand the origins of Buenos Aires and the process of founding cities in the New World.
What this book contributes
- Access to original historical documents analyzed by a specialist, including the act of the second foundation.
- Detailed understanding of the political and social context that surrounded the creation of Buenos Aires.
- Precise information on the initial urban design of the city and its early evolution.
- A critical and well-founded vision of the difficulties of the first foundation and the success of the second.
- Knowledge about the figure of Juan de Garay, his trajectory, and his legacy in the region.
Technical specifications
- Author: de Garay, Juan
- Publisher: Linkgua Digital
- Language: Spanish
- Topic: Classical texts, History of the Americas
- Collection: PdtE. Collection
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: October 2010
- Number of pages: 54
- Weight: 100 g
Editorial review
This is a brief but substantial work, ideal for those seeking a rigorous introduction to the foundational history of Buenos Aires. Its focus on documentary analysis and the figure of Juan de Garay makes it a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts of colonial history. The paperback format facilitates consultation, and its length allows for an agile read without sacrificing critical content.