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What really caused the fall of the Aztec Empire?

Clive Luty

The fall of the Aztec Empire is a very complicated topic, but I'll try to explain it as simply as possible. The Aztecs were a powerful civilization that ruled over much of what is now Mexico. They were known for their advanced technology, art, and religious practices.

However, in 1519, a Spanish explorer named Hernán Cortés arrived in Mexico with his army. He claimed he was there to trade, but he really wanted to conquer the Aztecs and take their land and treasures. At first, the Aztecs welcomed Cortés and his men. But soon they realized that these strangers were not their friends.

Cortés and his army were much stronger than the Aztecs, and they had weapons and animals that the Aztecs had never seen before. The Spanish also brought diseases with them that the Aztecs had no immunity to. Many Aztecs got sick and died, which weakened their army.

Cortés took advantage of this and began attacking the Aztecs. He made alliances with some of their enemies and gained more soldiers. He also took the Aztec emperor, Montezuma, hostage. This caused a lot of anger among the Aztecs, and they began fighting back.

In 1520, the Aztecs managed to push the Spanish out of their city, Tenochtitlán. But the victory was short-lived. Cortés returned with his army and destroyed the city. Many Aztecs were killed, and their buildings and treasures were looted.

The fall of the Aztec Empire was a tragic event, caused by greed and violence. The Spanish wanted power and wealth, and they were willing to destroy an entire civilization to get it. The Aztecs were brave and strong, but they were no match for the Spanish and their weapons and diseases. Today, we remember the Aztecs and their amazing culture, and we try to learn from the mistakes of the past.