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Hernandez Cortes, Spanish conquistador, 16th century
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Hernandez Cortes, Spanish conquistador, 16th century
Hernandez Cortes, Spanish conquistador, 16th century. Cortes (1485-1547) arriving in Mexico followed by his black servant and preceeded by La Malinche, his interpreter and mistress. Landing in Mexico in 1519, with a force of only some 600 men, Cortes succeeded in overthrowing the empire of the Aztecs, a civilization numbering 5 million. He was able to achieve this partly due to the natives being terrified of the Europeans horses and firearms, neither of which they had seen before. In addition, the Aztecs believed a prophecy that they would be visited by a light-skinned bearded god, the Quetzalcoatl, who had taught them agriculture and government in the past, and whose return they were to welcome with great ceremony. Cortes was able to exploit his resemblance to the Quetzalcoatl to great effect. From the Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris
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Media ID 14847812
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Conqueror Conquest Conquistador Cortes Greed Hernan Cortes Hernan Cortez Hernando Hernando Cortes Hernando Cortez Imperialism Interpreter Invader Invaders Invasion Marching Mexico Mistress Procession Servant Ann Ronan Pictures Dona Marina Malinche Military Personnel Standard
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the arrival of Hernando Cortes, a Spanish conquistador, in Mexico during the 16th century. Leading his small force of only 600 men, Cortes embarked on a mission to overthrow the mighty Aztec empire, which boasted a population of five million. The image showcases Cortes at the forefront, accompanied by his black servant and preceded by La Malinche, his trusted interpreter and mistress. Cortes' success in this conquest can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the native people were terrified by the sight of European horses and firearms - both completely foreign to them. Exploiting their fear and unfamiliarity with these technologies played a crucial role in securing victory for Cortes. Additionally, the Aztecs held strong beliefs in an ancient prophecy that foretold the return of Quetzalcoatl: a light-skinned bearded god who had taught them agriculture and government in times past. Capitalizing on his resemblance to Quetzalcoatl allowed Cortes to gain favor among certain factions within Aztec society. The significance of this historical moment is beautifully captured through this vivid print from Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris. It serves as a reminder not only of Hernando Cortes' remarkable conquest but also highlights elements such as imperialism, occupation, war strategy, cultural exchange (through La Malinche), and human ambition that shaped this pivotal era in history.
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