The Fall of the Aztec Empire

Initial Conflict

• Early Encounters: Initially friendly relations between the Aztecs and Spaniards.
• Turning Point: Spaniards took Emperor Moctezuma hostage, killed local nobles.

La Noche Triste (Night of Sorrow)

• Date: 1st July 1520.
• Event: Spaniards attempted to flee from Tenochtitlan.
• Outcome: Significant Spanish losses, including men, horses, and supplies.
• Aftermath: Cortes retreated to Tlaxcala.

Disease Impact

• Smallpox: Spread among the Mexica, causing significant fatalities, including Emperor Cuidlawak.

Siege of Tenochtitlan

• Cortes' Strategy:
  • Planned a siege to choke and starve the city.
  • Utilized reinforcements: around 90 horsemen, 120 crossbowmen, and many native allies.
  • Organized forces into divisions for coordinated attacks.
• Key Players: Pedro de Alvarado, Gonzalo de Sandoval, Cristobal de Olid.

Progress and Challenges

• Initial Assaults: Limited progress due to strategic defense by Mexica.
• Naval Dominance: Spaniards gained control over the lake.

Key Assaults

• June 10th Assault: Cortes' plan to penetrate deep into the city; resulted in retreat but gained some allies.
• Alvarado's Charge: Initial success but led to a trap, causing heavy losses.

Final Push

• Challenges: Low food and morale, Mexica resistance.
• June 30th Assault: Coordinated effort to reach Tlatelolco marketplace.
• Spanish Setbacks: Ambushes and challenging terrain.

Decline of Mexica

• Starvation and Disease: Weakened resistance.
• Final Days of the Siege:
  • Incremental progress by Spaniards.
  • Final defenses in Tlatelolco fell on August 13th.

Fall of Tenochtitlan

• Outcome: Capture of Cautemoc, end of the Aztec Empire.
• Significance: Birth of modern Mexico, flow of commodities to Spain.

Conclusion

• Final Remarks: Transition to new series and appreciation for supporters.