Aniversario luctuoso de Tangaxoan II

Tangaxoan Tzintzicha, also known as Tangaxoan II, was the last Cazonci (ruler) of the Purépecha Empire, which was located in the region of the Purépecha Plateau in present-day Michoacán, Mexico. His name means “He with the good teeth” and “Man who builds fortresses.”

Tangaxoan Tzíntzicha Tangaxoan II assumed the throne in 1521 after the death of his father, Zuanga, due to smallpox. As Cazonci, Tangaxoan II had political, legal and religious functions, and was the representative of Curicaueri, the god of fire and war. His main responsibilities included calling for war, providing firewood for Curicaueri, dispensing justice and appointing rulers.

In 1522, Tangaxoan Tzíntzicha faced the arrival of the Spanish led by Cristóbal de Olid. To avoid a defeat similar to that of the Mexicas in Tenochtitlán, he decided to surrender and signed a peace pact with the Spanish. Although he surrendered, Tangaxoan II maintained a certain autonomy and kept some lands for himself.

However, in 1529, Nuño de Guzmán accused Tangaxoan of keeping his ancient religion secret, encouraging disobedience, and killing some Spaniards. After a trial, Tangaxoan was sentenced to death by burning on February 14, 1530. His death sparked an uprising of the Purépecha people, led by his daughter Eréndira.

Tangaxoan Tzíntzicha is remembered as a brave leader who tried to protect his people and his territory from the Spanish invasion, and his legacy lives on in the history of Michoacán.

Cada 14 de febrero, el Consejo Purépecha junto con representantes de la comunidades y acompañados por el gobierno de Pátzcuaro. realizan una ceremonia en el monumento dedicado al emperador Tangaxoan.