Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa, a Spanish navigator and explorer, embarked on a significant naval expedition towards the end of the 16th century with the purpose of exploring and establishing Spanish settlements in the southern regions of South America. On November 2, 1584, he founded Nombre de Jesús, marking the first of two attempts to settle in the strategically important Strait of Magellan. The strait serves as a crucial maritime passage between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, making it a key area for Spanish exploration and colonization efforts.

The foundation of Nombre de Jesús was a crucial step in Spain's ambitions to control and navigate these waters. Sarmiento chose a site that not only provided natural harbor but was also defensible against potential rival powers. Despite the promising start, the harsh climatic conditions and the presence of hostile indigenous populations soon posed insurmountable challenges for the settlers. Following this, a second settlement called Rey Don Felipe was established nearby, but like its predecessor, it struggled to sustain itself.

Ultimately, the settlements were abandoned due to food shortages, hostile relations with local tribes, and the difficulties posed by the region's environment. Despite their short-lived existence, these settlements highlighted Spain's initial efforts to exert its influence in the southern cone of South America, paving the way for future explorations and eventual settlements in the area.