Table of Contents
Why did Hernan Cortes want to go to the New World?
Cortes heard of Christopher Columbus’ discoveries in the new world. He wanted to travel and see new lands. He also wanted to make his fortune and fame. Cortes sailed for the New World in 1504.
What impact did Hernan Cortes have on the New World?
His greatest impact in history is that he established a firm Spanish presence in the New World after conquering the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan. The impact that he had on the native populations was very negative. He introduced smallpox to Mexico with devastating consequences.
Was Cortes good or evil?
Cortes was a ruthless leader whose ambition was matched only by his conviction that he could bring the Indigenous peoples of Mexico to the Kingdom of Spain and Christianity, and make himself fabulously wealthy in the process. As a controversial historical figure, there are many myths about Hernan Cortes.
What did Hernan Cortes do to the Aztecs?
Hernan Cortes was the Spanish conquistador that destroyed the empire of the Aztecs and claimed Mexico for the Spanish crown. His greatest impact in history is that he established a firm Spanish presence in the New World after conquering the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan.
When did Hernan Cortes set sail for the New World?
Born around 1485, Hernán Cortés was a Spanish conquistador and explorer who defeated the Aztecs and claimed Mexico for Spain. He first set sail to the New World at the age of 19. Cortés later joined an expedition to Cuba. In 1518, he set off to explore Mexico.
Where is the portrait of Hernan Cortes located?
Portrait of Young Cortés, 16th century, located at the Museo de America, Madrid. With superior firepower, 600 Spaniards, a dozen horses, and thousands of native allies, Hernán Cortés conquered Mexico for Spain. This also marked the fall of the Aztec Empire.
Who was the slave woman that Hernan Cortes had?
One of the chieftains gifted a slave woman to Cortés named Malinche. She was bilingual so she spoke both Aztec and Mayan languages, which made her very useful to Cortés. She eventually learned Spanish, and became Cortés’s personal interpreter, guide, and mistress. They had a son named Martin.