Gonzalo Pizarro

Gonzalo Pizarro (1510–1578) was a Spanish conquistador and younger half-brother of Francisco Pizarro, the conqueror of the Inca Empire. Born in Trujillo, Spain, Gonzalo accompanied his brother to the Americas and played a significant role in the Spanish conquest of Peru. He is particularly known for his leadership in the exploration of the Amazon River, which he named "Río de las Amazonas" after encountering indigenous tribes of female warriors, whom he likened to the Amazons of Greek mythology. In Hebrew, his name can be translated as גונזלו פיזארו (Gonzalo Pizarro). In Quechua, the indigenous language of the Incas, he is sometimes referred to as "Kunzalu Pizarro." After the conquest, Gonzalo Pizarro governed Peru but was later removed from power and sent back to Spain. His actions, including the execution of Diego de Almagro's followers, contributed to the political instability of the region. Despite his controversial legacy, Pizarro's expeditions significantly expanded Spanish territorial control in South America.