Nationality Spanish Profession Military Name Antonio de | Occupation Farmer Religion Catholicism | |
Full Name Antonio Roman Cabral de Melo Alpoim Caravajal y Salas | ||
Antonio Cabral de Melo (1646-1700s) was a Spanish nobleman, Captain and landowner in the province of Buenos Aires, in the late 1600s. The Cabral de Melo were one of the most powerful families in the Río de la Plata during the 17th century, descendants of the Royal House of Portugal.
Biography
Cabral de Melo was born in Buenos Aires, son of Cristóbal Cabral de Melo and María de Carbajal. He was married in the Buenos Aires Cathedral, on July 13, 1671 with Leonor Morales, daughter of Pedro Morales y Mercado and Mariana de Manzanares.
Cabral de Melo was dedicated himself to the raising of livestock, both cattle and hogs, had his ranch in the center of Buenos Aires Province. He also participated in military expeditions against the Indians, held the position of Maestre de Campo. Almost all their missions were dedicated to protect livestock and ranchers in the area continuously attacked by wild Indians. His uncle Manuel Cabral de Alpoim was one of the most respected and feared by the natives.
Antonio Cabral de Melo was grandson of Gonzalo Carbajal, Lieutenant Governor and Alcalde of Buenos Aires.