Lima

Definition

Lima is the capital city of Peru, founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535. As one of the first major colonial settlements in South America, it became a crucial political, economic, and cultural hub during the Spanish colonial period. Its strategic location along the Pacific coast made it an essential port for trade and the distribution of goods throughout the region, influencing the establishment and growth of other settlements in the Andes and beyond.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lima was originally named 'La Ciudad de los Reyes' (City of Kings) but eventually became known as Lima, derived from the local Rímac River's name.
2. The city quickly developed into a center of commerce due to its proximity to silver mines in Potosí, facilitating trade between Europe and the Americas.
3. Lima's architecture reflects a blend of Spanish colonial styles with indigenous influences, characterized by ornate churches and government buildings.
4. The establishment of universities and educational institutions in Lima contributed to its role as a cultural center in colonial Latin America.
5. Lima served as a critical location for the Spanish Crown's administration, controlling both regional governance and trade routes throughout South America.

Review Questions

• How did Lima's founding impact the political and economic landscape of colonial South America?
  • Lima's founding by Francisco Pizarro established it as a key political center for the Spanish Empire in South America. It became the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru, allowing for centralized governance over vast territories. Economically, Lima's location facilitated trade with silver-rich areas like Potosí, positioning it as a vital port that influenced economic activities across the continent.
• Discuss the significance of Lima's architecture in reflecting colonial influences and cultural exchanges during its early years.
  • Lima's architecture serves as a visual representation of the blending of Spanish colonial styles with indigenous traditions. The city's churches, government buildings, and homes showcase ornate European designs alongside local materials and construction techniques. This architectural mix illustrates how colonization brought about cultural exchanges that shaped not only Lima but also other colonial cities in Latin America.
• Evaluate the role of Lima in shaping colonial governance and cultural development in South America during the Spanish colonial period.
  • Lima played a pivotal role in shaping both governance and culture during the Spanish colonial period. As the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru, it centralized power and administration, affecting how laws and policies were enacted across vast regions. Culturally, Lima fostered intellectual growth through universities and institutions that promoted education and artistic expression, thereby influencing broader societal values and practices throughout colonial South America.

Related terms

Francisco Pizarro: The Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that conquered the Inca Empire and founded Lima.

Viceroyalty of Peru: The administrative region created by the Spanish Crown to govern its territories in South America, with Lima as its capital.

The Plaza Mayor: The main square in Lima, which served as a focal point for political and religious activities during colonial times.