EPISODE 21 The Conquest of Mexico (Part 2): The Dogs of War
Jun 22, 2017
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Dive into the fierce clash of 16th-century warriors as the Spaniards meet the Mexica empire. Discover the first battle featuring horses in Mexico and the terrifying armored dogs trained to hunt humans. Explore the significant role of Malintzin, a woman who shifted from slavery to power, and uncover the motivations behind Moctezuma's choices. Experience Cortés' theatrical political maneuvers and the brutal realities of war. Amidst cultural conflicts and sacrifices, the saga unfolds, leaving a stark mark on history.
The introduction of horses and trained war dogs by the Spaniards led to psychological terror among the indigenous populations in Mexico.
Malinche emerged as a pivotal figure in the Spanish expedition, navigating complex cultural landscapes while influencing Cortés's strategies and decisions.
Tensions escalated as the Spaniards and Tlaxcalans prepared to confront the Mexica, showcasing the shifting alliances and warfare tactics of the time.
Deep dives
Introduction to Cortés's Expedition
In 1519, Hernán Cortés led a Spanish expedition to the southern coast of modern-day Mexico, marking the beginning of a quest for conquest driven by the lure of gold. This was the third attempt by Spaniards to engage with the local Maya, with prior expeditions failing due to local resistance and attacks. Cortés's journey was marked by legal ambiguity, as he acted against the orders of the governor of Cuba, hoping either for success or death in pursuit of wealth and glory. His arrival coincided with news of a vast civilization in the region, igniting further ambition among his men.
Cortés's Strategic Alliances
Upon reaching the coast, Cortés encountered Jerónimo de Aguilar, a Spaniard who had been shipwrecked and learned the Maya language, providing invaluable assistance in negotiation with local tribes. This was contrasted by Gonzalo Guerrero, another shipwreck survivor who had integrated into Maya society and resisted returning to the Spaniards. Aguilar's translation skills played a critical role in securing local support, yet tensions with the nearby Maya emerged as Cortés sought greater supplies and riches. The expedition’s complex interactions revealed its precarious position, as local tribes feared Cortés's intentions and prepared for violence.
The Clash at Potonchan
The situation escalated at Potonchan when Cortés demanded that the Maya acknowledge the supremacy of the King of Spain, leading to unexpected violence. The Maya engaged in battle despite being intimidated by the firepower of the Spaniards, which included cannons and muskets. This first confrontation resulted in a psychological warfare moment, as the Spaniards effectively used their weaponry to instill fear, despite suffering wounds themselves. The encounter underscored the disparity in tactical approaches, with the Spaniards focused on conquest through force while the Maya struggled with traditional practices of wounding rather than outright killing.
The Importance of Horses and Dogs
Horses, previously unseen by the native populations, emerged as significant psychological weapons in the conflict, causing widespread panic among the Maya. They equated the cavalry with mythical creatures, further complicating their understanding of the Spanish invaders. In addition to horses, the Spaniards utilized trained war dogs, which presented a terrifying new element against native warriors unaccustomed to such beasts. The combination of these factors, along with better armament and tactics, gradually shifted the balance of power towards the small Spanish force.
Malinche's Role in the Conquest
Cortés's interactions with the indigenous peoples were significantly influenced by Malinche, a young woman who initially served as a slave but quickly became a key interpreter and advisor. Fluently speaking both Maya and Nahuatl, Malinche facilitated communications and negotiations, gaining Cortés’s trust and affection. Her pivotal role transformed the Spanish campaign, earning her historical recognition as a crucial figure in the conquest of Mexico. Despite her significant contributions, her legacy remains contentious, often mired in interpretations of betrayal and collaboration.
Challenges with Moctezuma's Empire
As the Spanish and their newfound Tlaxcalan allies prepared for confrontation with Moctezuma's empire, tensions mounted with both sides engaging in strategic maneuvers. Moctezuma sent gifts and attempted to placate Cortés, revealing his fear of the Spaniard's intentions while signaling weakness in his leadership. The Tlaxcalans, initially hesitant, shifted their allegiance towards the Spaniards after witnessing their relentless tactics and the outcome of several skirmishes. This alliance, however, set the stage for a climactic confrontation against the Mexica, whose brutal warfare capabilities represented a formidable challenge in the impending conflict.
“My advice is not to allow into your house someone who will put you out of it.” Cuitlahuac
“He added that we could look for no help or assistance except from God, for now we had no ships in which to return to Cuba. Therefore we must rely on our own good swords and stout hearts.” Bernal Diaz
“We knew that they had come determined to leave none of us alive except those who were to be sacrificed to their idols.” Bernal Diaz
In the 1500s, two highly militaristic peoples fueled by religious ideologies requiring bloodshed clashed with one another. This is the tale of what happened when a band of Spaniards run into the Mexica (Aztec) empire. By the time the dust will settle, out of the 25 million indigenous inhabitants of Mexico, little over a million will be left standing.
In this second episode:
-The first battle ever featuring horses in Mexico
-Enormous, angry dogs wearing armor and trained to eat human flesh
-Malintzin and her choices
-From slavery to becoming one of the most important women in Mexico
-The tale of Quetzalcoatl
-“If the Spaniards want to eat you, let them”
-Apparently, the Spaniards don’t appreciate food sprinkled with a sauce of human blood
-Rescuing five sacrificial victims before returning them to be sacrificed
-Cortes deserved an Academy Award for best political theater
