The interview uncovers complexities in Pacific trade routes, challenging conventional narratives about the Spanish Empire’s trade. It focuses on San Blas, a naval base in New Spain, which caused discontent among Mexico City merchants.
Dr. Duggan explains how the Spanish Crown aimed to weaken the Mexico City merchants by granting San Blas more autonomy, turning it into an international port. They discuss contraband trade, where some, like ship captains, engaged in secret trading for extra income. Finally, we discuss the fascinating figure of Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Cuadra and his exploration of the northern coast, as well as his interactions with native people.
If you would like to watch the interview, you can see it on YouTube: YouTube.com/@califrontier.
