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The Aztecs created one of the greatest civilizations in human history. But their magnificent world came at a very real human cost. Aztec rulers exacted heavy tribute on ten million subjects, so it is little wonder that thousands of indigenous people revolted when the Spaniards arrived in 1519.
The Conquest
In April 1519, Spanish ships sailed along the coast of Veracruz. The Aztecs wondered if their arrival signaled the return of Quetzalcoatl, as foretold by ancient prophecy.
Soon, however, Hernán Cortés and his small group of adventurers unleashed a storm upon the Aztec Empire. With the help of thousands of rebellious indigenous peoples, Cortés and his men laid siege to Tenochtitlan.
 Steel swords were not necessarily superior to obsidian-edged swords, and steel armor was cumbersome compared to the Aztec quilted cotton armor. Nevertheless, Aztec warriors waged a losing battle against the invading Spaniards and their tens of thousands of indigenous allies. Though the Aztecs fought valiantly, after nearly two years of fighting, Tenochtitlan finally fell.
A New Regime
Thousands of natives died from European diseases as the old regime was replaced by the viceroyalty of New Spain. What followed was the birth of a new society that incorporated elements of two cultures: one Indigenous, the other European.
Continue through the Conclusion: Melding Two Cultures. >>
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