The Turk - The nickname (El Turco) given by members of Coronado's expedition in 1540-1542 to a Pawnee Indian who acted as a guide, because of a type of turban headdress he wore.

The Turk had been a slave in New Mexico and wanted to return to his own people.  Therefore he told Coronado a mythical story of much gold which might be found to the north, and offered to lead the Spaniard there.  however, he took the expedition on a wild goose chase and finally Coronado realized what he was doing.

The Turk was placed in irons and later strangled to death.

Related Information within this Site
[ Coronado ][ Pawnee ]