Hernán Cortés is one of the most controversial figures in history. As the conqueror of Mexico, he brought down an empire but also sparked a lot of controversy. Who was this man really? In this blog post, we take a detailed look at his life and his deeds.
Early Life of Hernán Cortés
Birth and Family
Hernán Cortés was born in Medellín, Spain, in 1485. His family was noble but not wealthy. From an early age he showed a thirst for adventure that would eventually lead him to the New World.
education and training
Cortés was sent to Salamanca to study law, but he became bored with his studies and soon returned, looking for opportunities to travel to the New World instead.
The Road to America
First trip to Hispaniola
In 1504, Cortés sailed to Hispaniola (now the Dominican Republic). There he worked as a scribe and gained his first experience in colonial administration.
Arrival in Cuba
In 1511, Cortés joined the expedition to Cuba, where he served under Diego Velázquez, where he demonstrated his skills as a leader and organizer.
The Conquest of Mexico
The landing in Veracruz
In 1519, Cortés and his men landed in Veracruz. He founded the city and began to forge alliances with native tribes who were dissatisfied with Aztec rule.
The alliance with native tribes
Through skillful negotiations and military strength, Cortés managed to gain important allies such as the Tlaxcalans.
What did Cortés discover?
Cortés discovered not only the rich land of the Aztecs, but also the complex culture and impressive buildings that helped him recognize the weaknesses and strengths of his opponents.
The role of Malinche
Who was Malinche?
Malinche, also known as Doña Marina, was an indigenous woman who played a crucial role in Cortés' conquest, acting as interpreter, advisor and lover.
Their importance for Cortés
Malinche helped Cortés communicate with the Aztecs and form alliances. Her language skills and knowledge of native cultures were invaluable.
The Siege of Tenochtitlan
The first attack
In November 1519, Cortés invaded Tenochtitlán and captured Moctezuma, leading to tensions and eventual rebellion.
The Reconquest of the City
After a brief escape, Cortés returned in 1521 and conquered Tenochtitlán once and for all. The city was almost completely destroyed.
Did Cortés burn his ships?
The Legend and the Truth
There is a legend that Cortés burned his ships to prevent his men from retreating, but in fact he only had them scrapped to strengthen his resolve.
The Fate of Moctezuma
meeting with Cortés
Moctezuma received Cortés in a friendly manner, hoping to appease him. However, this strategy failed.
The Death of Moctezuma
Moctezuma's death remains mysterious. Some accounts say he was killed by the Spanish, others that he was stoned by his own people.
The Conquest of Tenochtitlan
The Destruction of the City
The final conquest of Tenochtitlan led to the almost complete destruction of the city. This marked the end of the Aztec Empire.
The Effects on the Aztec Empire
With the fall of Tenochtitlan, the mighty Aztec Empire collapsed. The Spanish established their colonial rule in Mexico.
How many wives did Hernán Cortés have?
Cortés had several relationships and marriages. The most famous is his relationship with Malinche, with whom he had a son. He was also married to Juana de Zúñiga.
Life after the conquest
return to Spain
After the conquest of Mexico, Cortés returned to Spain, where he was honored by the king but also fell into disgrace.
Later expeditions
Cortés undertook further expeditions, including one to Honduras and Baja California. None were as successful as his conquest of Mexico.
How did Cortés die?
Cortés died in Spain in 1547, disappointed and impoverished. He was buried in Mexico City, but his grave was moved several times.
Hernán Cortés: Hero or Villain?
Opinions about Hernán Cortés are divided. Some see him as a brilliant strategist and brave explorer, others as a brutal conqueror who caused immeasurable suffering.
conclusion
Hernán Cortés remains a fascinating and controversial figure. His actions have left an irrevocable mark on history and a legacy that is still debated today.
FAQs
1. What did Hernán Cortés discover?
Cortés discovered the Aztec civilization and its capital Tenochtitlán, which he eventually conquered and destroyed.
2. How many wives did Hernán Cortés have?
Cortés had several wives, including Malinche and his wife Juana de Zúñiga.
3. When was Mexico conquered by the Spanish?
Mexico was conquered in 1521 after the conquest of Tenochtitlán by Cortés and his allies.
4. Did Cortés burn his ships?
Cortés had his ships scrapped to prevent his men from retreating and to strengthen their resolve.
5. How did Cortés die?
Cortés died in Spain in 1547, impoverished and disappointed by the lack of recognition of his achievements.
