Hernando Cortes the Explorer
Cortes defeats Aztec Empire, now Governor of New Spain
About Hernando Cortes
Hernando Cortes was born in Spain. The exact date of his birth is unknown, but most historians agree he was born in 1485. Of four children, he was the only boy. At 14 he was sent by his parents to school at one of the best universities in Spain. His parents dreamed that he would study Latin and become a lawyer, but Cortes didn't. After just 2 years, Hernando returned home. The 16 year old boy wanted to sail to the West Indies, search for gold, and conquer new land. He got interested in that because of Columbus' discoveries.
The Defeat of Cuba
The Aztecs
Conquering the Aztecs
Hernando Cortes Meeting the Emporer
Hernando and His army fighting the Aztecs
Interview WIth Hernando Cortes About Accomplishments and Sponsor
Hernando: I had what I thought to be to be many accomplishments, but the two I think are most important was defeating the Aztecs and building Mexico City on top of the Aztec Empire's ruins. The blockade was the key to defeating the Aztecs. If I hadn't come up with that, I don't know if we would've beaten the Aztecs.
David: Who sponsored your trip?
Hernando: Diego Velazquez did, he was the Cuban governor at the time. He was born in Spain, like me.