The Spanish Conquest of the Aztec Empire

Hernán Cortés and the Conquest of Mexico

• Hernán Cortés led a small group of Spaniards to the Mexican mainland in 1519.
• After four months on the coast, the Spaniards marched inland to the capital city, Tenochtitlán.

Alliances and Gifts

• The Spaniards formed alliances with local tribes who were dissatisfied with the Aztec rule.
• Montezuma gave the Spaniards gold, jewels, and other precious items when they arrived at the capital city.

Cortés and Moctezuma

• The natives referred to Cortés as 'Malinche', which was also the name of his interpreter.
• The Spaniards faced challenges such as disease, hunger, and treacherous terrain during their march to Tenochtitlán.
• Moctezuma tried to persuade the invaders to leave the city and return to the coast.

Arrival at the Capital City

• When Cortés and his men arrived at the capital city, they met with Moctezuma, the Aztec emperor.
• The market place, with its vibrant colors, exotic produce, and bustling activity, impressed Cortés and his men.
• Montezuma instructed Cortés to look at the temple where the Aztecs worshiped their gods.

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