How Cortés Exploited Aztec Unrest to Conquer Tenochtitlan

Hernán Cortés masterfully leveraged internal divisions within the Aztec Empire:

• Political Instability: Conquered tribes resented Aztec rule; Cortés allied with them (notably the Tlaxcalans).
• Leadership Crisis: Moctezuma II’s death and disputed succession weakened central authority.
• Religious Differences: Groups like the Tlaxcalans saw Spanish alliance as a chance to overthrow Aztec hegemony.
• Economic Grievances: Tribute burdens created discontent; Cortés promised relief.
• Technological Edge: Firearms, steel, horses gave psychological and military advantage.
• Native Allies: Thousands of indigenous warriors bolstered Spanish forces.

By exploiting unrest, forging alliances, and using superior arms, Cortés divided and conquered the empire, leading to Tenochtitlan’s fall in 1521.