Montezuma’s initial reaction to the arrival of Cortés remains debated. Some historians suggest he believed Cortés might be the returning god Quetzalcoatl, fulfilling prophecy, while others argue Montezuma was a shrewd ruler attempting to manage a dangerous threat diplomatically.

Cortés’ ambition and skill soon became apparent. He acquired vast encomiendas—grants of land and indigenous labor—and took part in expeditions into the interior of Cuba. His ability to navigate both military challenges and colonial politics set him apart. In 1518, Cort&ea

Introduction Hernán Cortés, one of the most famous and controversial figures of the Age of Exploration, is best known for leading the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire in the early 16th century. His audacious expedition reshaped the course of history by initiating European coloni

After regrouping with indigenous allies, Cortés launched a full-scale siege of Tenochtitlan in 1521. Utilizing superior weaponry, cavalry, and smallpox—an epidemic brought by Europeans that devastated the native population—the Spanish gradually encircled the city. The siege las