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How did Diego de Almagroâs followers assassinate Francisco Pizarro in 1541?
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Following the execution of Diego de Almagro by Francisco Pizarroâs brother, Hernando, Almagroâs son and his remaining adherents were confined and monitored in Lima. Fearing that they were marked for elimination by Pizarro, these followers decided to preemptively strike.12
On June 26, 1541, the group attacked Pizarroâs palace. During the assault, Pizarro was killed; according to historical accounts, he died a protracted death, during which he drew a cross of his own blood on the ground, kissed it, and cried out "Jesus" as he fell. This assassination was a pivotal event in the internecine conflicts between the Spanish factions in Peru.123