Diego was the original Zorro, it was his years of helping the people that created the legend. Before the departure of Raphael Montero he went to save three commoners from execution and gave Raphael a 'small momento' reminding him never to return, three slits in his neck that made a Z for Zorro. He returned home to his wife and daughter, only to have Raphael come in and kill Esperanza in an attempt to captured 'Zorro'. When he was thrown in prison his daughter Elena was taken by Montero to make him live with the knowledge he had lost everything.

Years later Diego escaped from prison just as Montero was returning to California. He trained Alejandro Murrieta to become the new Zorro and defend California from Montero, and died after making sure his daughter new who her true father was.

Esperanza was the mother of Elena, she died trying to save her husband, Diego de la Vega, from Raphael Montero. She was often described to Elena by Montero as a beautiful, ladylike woman, though in fact she was more like her spirited daughter Elena. Though Esperanza is only seen in one or two scenes, she is a very important character and is often spoken of. She was loved by both Diego and Raphael Montero, her choice was most likely one of the factors that made Montero hate Diego so much.

Information provided by Kyrie.

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© 2005 Kate Miller. All graphics and content are made by me unless otherwise stated. Do not reproduce without permission. No infringement intended. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions please e-mail me at Peachie_K@Yahoo.com. The Mask of Zorro © TriStar Pictures, 1998. This site has no affiliation whatsoever with TriStar or Catherine Zeta-Jones.