Galvarino

Galvarino, born on September twenty-first, fourteen ninety, was a renowned Mapuche warrior who played a significant role during the early stages of the Arauco War. His military career was marked by his fierce resistance against Spanish colonization, particularly during the Battle of Lagunillas, where he was captured alongside one hundred fifty other Mapuche warriors by the forces of Governor García Hurtado de Mendoza.

As a punishment for their insurrection, many of the captured warriors faced brutal mutilations. Galvarino, in a particularly harrowing fate, had both of his hands severed. Released as a grim warning to the Mapuche people, he was sent back to deliver a message to General Caupolicán, detailing the Spanish forces' strength and instilling fear among his compatriots.

Upon his return, Galvarino presented his grievous injuries to Caupolicán and the war council, passionately calling for justice and a united uprising against the Spanish invaders. His bravery earned him the command of a squadron, and despite his disabilities, he fought valiantly alongside Caupolicán, using knives strapped to his wrists in place of hands. His leadership inspired his men, urging them to fight fiercely for their homeland.

In the subsequent Battle of Millarapue, Galvarino's squadron faced off against Mendoza's forces. Despite their valiant efforts, Mendoza's command ultimately overwhelmed Galvarino's division, resulting in the deaths of three thousand Mapuche warriors and the capture of over eight hundred, including Galvarino himself. Mendoza ordered his execution, and while some accounts suggest he was thrown to the dogs, others, including Alonso de Ercilla's 'La Araucana,' state that he met his end by hanging.