The military pacification of the area by José de Escandón in the 1740s allowed for the building of permanent missions in the heart of the Sierra Gorda. However, the five Franciscans missions accredited to Junípero Serra were built in Pame territory, as these people were more accepting of Spanish domination.
The establishment of a military presence by José de Escandón in the 1740s facilitated the construction of long-lasting missions within the Sierra Gorda's core. In contrast, the five Franciscan missions attributed to Junípero Serra were constructed in Pame territory, where locals were more inclined towards accepting Spanish authority.