The Cruel and Bloody Reign of Chile’s La Quintrala

In 1598 the indigenous Mapuche and Huilleche peoples of modern-day Chile orchestrated an uprising against seven major Spanish outposts. Known as the “Destrucción de las Siete Ciudades” (Destruction of the Seven Cities), the conflict marked the beginning of colonial rule in the region. Spain’s grip intensified – as did the absolute power of its noble figures.