Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire

In this episode, we examine the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire, exploring how Hernán Cortés and a small expeditionary force brought down one of Mesoamerica’s most formidable states between 1519 and 1521. The discussion highlights the decisive role of indigenous allies such as the Tlaxcalans, the impact of technological differences like steel weapons and cavalry, and the devastating spread of European diseases that weakened Aztec resistance. We also consider the cultural and psychological dimensions of the conquest, including reported supernatural omens and the crucial mediation of translators like La Malinche. Finally, the episode looks at the establishment of New Spain and the profound social, political, and cultural transformations that reshaped the region in the aftermath of this pivotal encounter.