Mining in Hispaniola at the beguinning of the Discovery (1503-1515)

Abstract

The first years of the colonization of the New World after the euphoria of the discovery were very difficult years, due to the uncertainty, inexperience and failure to fulfill expectations of both the Crown and the settlers. But the island of Hispaniola became a bridgehead able to give a satisfactory response under President Nicolas de Ovando (1502-1509) with spectacular gold mining results able to meet the expected demands of the Discovery of the New World and ensure its economic survival. The chroniclers of the time reflected this mining differently, enlightening us with tillage methods, location, operational problems, etc. showing the significance of its activity. Uncovering these data, a technical analysis of the complex production system could give a more realistic picture that supports its development and assesses the extent of the efforts of those American miners.