Ancient
Cultures
In
the province
of Pastaza
, the Huaorani,
Alama, Zaparo
and Shuar
cultures inhabited
the province.
These cultures
still exist
today.
The
Colonial Period
During
the colonial
period, the
gold and silver
mines were
exploited.
Jesuits, Dominicans
and the Spanish
frequented
the area.
The
Missionaries
The
most well-known
missionary
expeditions
are those
of the 18th
century as
they caused
much conflict
among the
Indians of
the province.
In an attempt
to create
roads and
pathways,
the Jesuits
began to clear
vegetation
and map out
zones and
routes towards
Banos, Canelos
Bobonaza,
Andoas and
Pastaza. The
expulsion
of the Jesuits
was a setback
to the development
of the region.
With
independence,
no changes
were effected
in the area.
On 25th December
1920, the
province of
Napo- Pastaza
was created
with Tena
as its capital.
The province
was then separated
from Napo
on 22nd October
1959 by official
decree.
Last
Updated 23rd
August 2006
(DLW)
