Here's why:
* Early Basque presence: Basques were active in early exploration and settlement of the Americas, particularly in the fishing industry and as whalers. They were present in areas like Newfoundland, Labrador, and even the Pacific Coast.
* Lack of detailed records: Historical records of early explorations, especially regarding individual deaths, are often fragmented or non-existent. This makes it difficult to pinpoint the first Basque fatality.
* Importance of identifying the first: Focusing on identifying the "first" death can be problematic, as it overlooks the collective experience and hardships faced by Basque settlers.
Instead of focusing on a single individual, it's more relevant to understand the challenges and dangers Basque explorers and settlers encountered in the New World. These included:
* Harsh environments: The extreme climate and harsh conditions in the Americas led to illnesses and fatalities.
* Conflict with indigenous populations: Conflicts with Native Americans resulted in casualties on both sides.
* Accidents and shipwrecks: Travel across the vast ocean was perilous and prone to accidents.
While we may never know the name of the first Basque killed in the Americas, their stories and experiences offer important insight into the early history of exploration and settlement of the continent.