LA CONQUISTA DE MÉXICO - TENOCHTITLTAN

Introduction

The video introduces the topic of the conquest of Mexico by Hernán Cortez in 1519. It mentions the expedition, the encounter with Jerónimo de Aguilar, and the importance of language interpretation.

Hernán Cortez's Expedition

• In 1519, Hernán Cortez led an expedition to the Mesoamerican territory.

• He encountered Jerónimo de Aguilar, who became his interpreter as he had learned the Mayan language while living under a Maya ruler.

• The Spanish fought against indigenous people along the Grijalva River in Tabasco.

• After the battle, they received gifts from the defeated indigenous people, including women like Malinche (also known as Malintzin), who became Cortez's interpreter and advisor.

Moctezuma's Reaction

Moctezuma, the ruler of Tenochtitlán, learned about Cortez's arrival and sent messengers to offer gifts in exchange for leaving their plans to reach Tenochtitlán.

Alliances with Indigenous Peoples

• Despite Moctezuma's attempt to dissuade them from reaching Tenochtitlán, Cortez and his men were interested in continuing their journey due to the wealth of gifts offered.

• Along their way, they formed alliances with various indigenous groups who were subjugated by the Mexicas (Aztecs) and forced to pay tribute.

• These alliances would play a crucial role in defeating the Mexicas during later battles.

Arrival at Tenochtitlán

In November 1519, Cortez and his men arrived at Tenochtitlán. They were initially welcomed by Moctezuma and took him and other important leaders as prisoners, demanding submission and tribute from the Mexica people.

Pedro de Alvarado's Actions

• During Cortez's absence, Pedro de Alvarado, left in charge of Tenochtitlán, attacked the Mexicas during a festival honoring Huitzilopochtli.

• This led to a rebellion among the Mexicas upon Cortez's return. Despite his attempts to calm the situation, he was not successful.

The Night of Sorrows

On June 30, 1520, Cortez attempted to flee Tenochtitlán but was discovered and attacked by the Mexicas. Many Spanish soldiers died in this battle, resulting in significant losses for Cortez.

Losses and Reinforcements

• The battle became known as "The Night of Sorrows" due to the heavy casualties suffered by the Spanish.

• After this defeat, Cortez ordered reinforcements from Villa Rica de la Veracruz, including more men, horses, weapons, and small sailing ships with cannons.

• Unbeknownst to them, another ally would aid their conquest - smallpox. The disease spread among the indigenous population who had no immunity against it.

Fall of Tenochtitlán

After Moctezuma's death and subsequent leadership changes among the Mexicas due to smallpox outbreaks, the Spanish besieged Tenochtitlán for three months until they captured Cuauhtémoc on August 13th, 1521.

Siege and Conquest

• The Spanish blockaded Tenochtitlán by cutting off food and water supplies.

• Despite resistance from the Mexicas during the siege that lasted around three months, they were eventually defeated.

• On August 13, 1521, the Spanish captured Cuauhtémoc, marking the conquest of Tenochtitlán.

Conclusion

The video provides an overview of Hernán Cortez's expedition to conquer Mexico in 1519. It highlights the alliances formed with indigenous groups and the eventual fall of Tenochtitlán. The conquest was aided by language interpretation, alliances with subjugated peoples, and the devastating impact of smallpox on the indigenous population.