Bishop Diego de Landa Destroys Maya Idols and Books

July 12th, 1562

July 12th, 1562

Bishop Diego de Landa Destroys Maya Idols and Books
How Long Ago?

462 years, 8 months, 3 days ago

Location

Maní, Yucatán, Mexico

Category

Religion & Philosophy

People
  • Diego de Landa
Links & References
Tags

Bishop Diego de Landa Destroys Maya Idols and Books

Fray Diego de Landa, acting Bishop of Yucatán, took a decisive and controversial step in 1562 by ordering the burning of sacred idols and religious texts of the Maya civilization. This act was rooted in a desire to eliminate idolatry and promote Christianity among the indigenous people. Landa believed the indigenous customs and writings were heretical, viewing them as obstacles to the conversion efforts of the Spanish crown. The destruction occurred in the town of Maní, Yucatán, an event reflecting the broader colonial tensions between Spanish conquerors and native cultures.

Landa viewed native beliefs as obstacles to conversion.

The destruction occurred in Maní, a cultural center.

Many indigenous texts lost contained valuable information.

Landa later expressed regret about the extent of destruction.

What Happened?

Fray Diego de Landa, a Spanish Franciscan missionary, acted as the Bishop of Yucatán during a turbulent time of cultural and religious transition. The Maya civilization, with its rich tapestry of beliefs, traditions, and texts, faced significant pressures from European colonizers intent on converting the indigenous populace to Christianity. In July 1562, Landa ordered the destruction of idols and sacred manuscripts in a bold attempt to eradicate idolatry, which he viewed as incompatible with the Christian faith. This took place in the town of Maní, a center for Maya culture and spirituality. Landa's reasoning was rooted in his interpretation of the religious tenets of Catholicism, seeing the removal of these elements as essential for the spiritual salvation of the Maya people.The bonfire that consumed these artifacts was not merely an act of destruction but symbolized a broader cultural erasure facilitated by colonial power dynamics. Landa's actions reflected both a profound misunderstanding of indigenous beliefs and an overwhelming ideological commitment to Christianity. This event highlighted the intense struggle between indigenous traditions and colonial authority, leading to significant changes in Maya culture. While the immediate goal was to promote Christianity, the long-term effects included the loss of valuable historical and cultural knowledge, as many of the texts contained insights into Maya language, astronomy, and societal organization.In his later writings, Landa expressed regret regarding the extent of destruction and acknowledged that some texts contained valuable information. This complex legacy shows the troubled relationship between colonizers and indigenous populations, where conversion often came at the cost of cultural annihilation. Landa's actions exemplified the colonial attitudes of the time, which often disregarded and devalued established indigenous societies in favor of their own religious and cultural frameworks.

Why Does it Matter?

The burning of the sacred idols and texts by Fray Diego de Landa marked a significant moment in the colonial history of the Americas. It highlighted the aggressive methods employed by European missionaries to enforce religious conformity and assimilation. This act initiated a trend of cultural suppression that would lead to the near-complete loss of many indigenous traditions and languages. The event illustrates the lasting consequences of colonialism, where the richness of native cultures faced harsh repression in the name of religion.

Discover More Historic Events from July 12th

Accidents & Tragedies

Fatal derailment of French passenger train

July 12th, 2013 11 years ago

A French passenger train derailed in Brétigny-sur-Orge, leading to six fatalities and over 200 injuries. The incident occurred when the train traveling from Paris to Limoges derailed upon entering the station, resulting in several carriages overturning. Emergency services responded promptly, working to assist the injured and investigate the causes of the derailment. Initial reports indicated possible track problems, raising concerns about rail safety and maintenance protocols in France.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Government Forces Assault in Tremseh

July 12th, 2012 12 years ago

Syrian government forces targeted the town of Tremseh, resulting in the deaths of between 68 and 150 individuals, primarily rebels and activists. This assault involved heavy shelling and the use of mortars, leading to significant destruction of property and loss of life. The attack marked a continued escalation in the conflict, highlighting the intense struggle between government forces and opposition factions amidst the ongoing Syrian Civil War.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Tank Truck Explosion Devastates Okobie, Nigeria

July 12th, 2012 12 years ago

A tragic explosion of a tank truck carrying gasoline in Okobie, Nigeria, led to the deaths of over 100 people. The accident happened when residents rushed to collect leaking fuel, igniting a catastrophic explosion. This incident caused widespread devastation in the community and raised concerns about safety measures around hazardous materials.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Apache Helicopters Conduct Controversial Airstrikes

July 12th, 2007 17 years ago

U.S. Army Apache helicopters engaged in airstrikes against suspected armed insurgents in Baghdad, Iraq, during a military operation. The airstrike resulted in the deaths of several individuals, including civilians. Footage from the cockpit, depicting the engagement and aftermath, was later leaked to the Internet, raising global concerns regarding military conduct and civilian casualties in combat zones.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Outbreak of the 2006 Lebanon War

July 12th, 2006 18 years ago

The conflict initiated when Hezbollah militants launched a cross-border raid into Israel, capturing two Israeli soldiers and killing others. Israel responded with extensive airstrikes against multiple targets in Lebanon, including Beirut. The attack marked the beginning of a 34-day military conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, leading to widespread destruction in Lebanon and significant casualties on both sides.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

Space Shuttle Atlantis Launches with Quest Airlock

July 12th, 2001 23 years ago

Space Shuttle Atlantis was launched on mission STS-104, transporting the Quest Joint Airlock to the International Space Station. The launch occurred from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, marking a significant milestone in the assembly of the ISS. The Quest Joint Airlock was crucial for future spacewalks and scientific installations on the station.

Continue Reading