Taking a Look at the Spanish Conquest

Introduction:

THE SPANISH CONQUEST of the Americas is an interesting story of exploration, wealth, greed, devastation and death. The Aztec civilization, which lived in what we know today as central and South America, began to come under threat from European explorers during the late 15th century. The Aztec civilization was one of the most spectacular in the world, and at its heart was the masterpiece of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. However, the prosperity and wonder of the Aztecs came to an end with the arrival of Hernan Cortés and his Spanish conquistadors. Hernan Cortés’ unjustified barbaric actions caused the total demise of one of the most diverse, powerful, creative and advanced civilizations in all of history.

Who were the Aztecs?

The Aztecs were a Mesoamerican people who lived in what is now Mexico City and the surrounding territory beginning in the 14th century. The Aztec Empire covered an enormous area of about 220 000 square kilometers and at its largest it comprised more than 15 million people. (See Appendix

In 1500 CE, the population of the Aztec capital city, Tenochtitlan, is estimated to have been more than 250 000 (at the same time, London’s population was only 50 000 and Paris’ was 200 000). The Aztecs were well known for there creativity, agriculture, arts, literature, and beliefs and view on human sacrifice.

Where did the Aztecs come from?

Where was Tenochtitlan?

The Aztec capital city, Tenochtitlan, was built on 2 smaller islands in the middle of Lake Tetzcoco in1325 CE.

What was Tenochtitlan?

The Aztecs used reclaimed land and canal systems to merge the two Islands together. This was an amazing engineering achievement in the 14th century. Tenochtitlan quickly grew just like the empire. Tenochtitlan became ...

... middle of paper ...

... surprise was a very large ship from Spain. It was from his father containing more weapons, supplies and horses. The third surprise was a new and unexpected weapon. The Spaniards had unknowingly brought small pox (a fatal and highly contagious disease) to Mexico. The disease wiped out 80% of the Aztec population. In the spring of 1521, Cortes and his replenished army returned to the valley of Mexico. He began to win allies around the lake one by one to join his army for the final attack of Tenochtitlan. The conquistadors used the boats to cut out supplies to the capital and then made daily raids into the city. Using Horses, cannons, crossbows, dogs, guns and the allied tribes to fight there way to the center of the city and within 80 days Cortés’ war strategies crippled the Aztecs. By the 13 of august 1521 captured the new King and the mission was accomplished.