De España Nos Llegó Cristo

Susana Baca's song "De España Nos Llegó Cristo" delves into the complex and often painful history of Spanish colonization in Latin America, particularly focusing on the Afro-Peruvian experience. The lyrics juxtapose the arrival of Christianity with the arrival of oppressive colonial masters, symbolized by the 'patrón.' This duality is starkly highlighted in the line, "El patrón igual que a Cristo, al negro,...... Crucificó," which translates to "The master, like Christ, crucified the black man." Here, Baca poignantly illustrates how the same forces that brought religion also brought suffering and subjugation to the African slaves in the New World.

The imagery of the 'toro bravo' or wild bull serves as a powerful metaphor for the Spanish conquerors. The bull's aggressive and dominating nature is depicted through its actions, such as 'embistiendo' (charging) and 'meneando los cuernos' (shaking its horns). This symbolizes the violent imposition of Spanish rule and culture over the indigenous and African populations. The bull's eventual departure, 'navegando hasta España sobre el mar de su sangre,' signifies the end of this brutal era, but not without leaving a lasting impact on the people and their land.

Baca also touches on themes of resistance and resilience. The line "Con sangre de cuatro siglos, forjé una bandera roja" translates to "With four centuries of blood, I forged a red flag," symbolizing the enduring struggle and the fight for identity and freedom. The song encapsulates a history of pain but also of defiance, as the oppressed forge their own path and identity despite centuries of subjugation. Through her evocative lyrics, Baca not only recounts history but also honors the strength and resilience of her ancestors.