Through his use of peyote and his close friendships with indigenous slaves, he began to write up his plan for the creation of a militia made up of indigenous and African slaves as well as angry criollos. He was to become the Emperor of New Spain, leading all people to freedom and equality.

In 1642, he was engaged to be married to another noblewoman when he was arrested by the Inquisition for encouraging Mexico’s independence and the abolishment of slavery. Authorities found on him what is now said to be the first proclamation of independence in the New World. He again escaped from jail after 10 years of imprisonment. It seemed to be such an impossible feat that it was said he was assisted by black magic. He hung anti-Inquisition pamphlets all over Mexico City, thus becoming a local legend.

He was later recaptured and spent the next nine years in solitary confinement. Before losing his sanity, he was able to compose several treatises, a memoir and 900 Latin psalms on his bed sheets. He was then burned at the stake. Just like any legend, there are rumors that he was able to escape the flames only to hang himself on his iron collar, thereby cheating the Mexican Inquisition of his execution.

He’s become a romantic figure in Mexican and Irish history. It’s hard to say where the legend stops and the history begins. You can now see his statue in Mexico City beneath the Angel of Independence, although many people no longer know who he is.

Source: Brandon Books