The founding of the city of León was a significant expansion effort by the Spanish colonial administration in New Spain. The event was ordered by Viceroy Don Martín Enríquez de Almanza, who aimed to establish a new settlement that could boost agricultural production and help secure Spanish claims in the region. Located in the Bajío region, León was selected for its rich soil and favorable climate, making it ideal for farming and livestock. The city was named in honor of León, Spain, reflecting the cultural ties between the homeland and the new territories being explored and settled by the Spanish.

The establishment of León marked a pivotal moment in the colonization of central Mexico. This new settlement not only created a hub for agricultural development but also served as a center for trade and commerce. The Viceroy’s directive aimed to attract settlers, including both Spanish and indigenous peoples, to take advantage of the region's resources. This initiative was part of a broader strategy to strengthen Spanish presence in New Spain and cultivate the local economy. As a result, León grew rapidly, becoming an important city in the Bajío region.

Furthermore, the founding of León can be seen as a precursor to the establishment of many other towns and cities in the region. It provided a model for future settlements, influencing urban planning and agriculture in colonial Mexico. Over the subsequent centuries, León developed into a crucial center for leather production and manufacturing, sustaining economic growth and contributing to Mexico's overall development. The city's structure and organization derived from its early days of colonization continue to shape its identity today.