This three-volume work by William H. Prescott details the conquest of Mexico by the Spanish, particularly the actions of Hernán Cortés and the fall of the Aztec empire. Prescott used primary sources to describe the Aztec civilization and the conquest, avoiding secondary sources due to their bias. The book is structured as a drama in five acts, or books, and presents a rigorous historical narrative supported by contemporary evidence. Prescott's work highlights the complexities of the conquest, the cultural and political context of both the Spanish and the Aztecs, and the broader implications of this historical event[3][5][6].
Fifth Sun offers a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of the Aztecs, drawing from indigenous sources written in Nahuatl. It challenges traditional narratives by presenting the Aztecs as active agents in their own history, rather than passive victims of colonization. The book explores their complex society, political strategies, and resilience in the face of conquest.
"Conquer or die indeed, Cortes thought… The hour of decision was at hand…"
It is the spring of 1521 and the fate of Mexico hangs by a thread. Smallpox has ripped through the local population, while the ruthless Spanish commander, Hernán Cortés, has cut off the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, from its surrounding provinces.
So begins one of the bloodiest and most dramatic struggles in all history - an extraordinary clash between the Old World and the New, as the Spanish tighten their grip on the island city of the Mexica. But can the new Aztec emperor, Cuauhtemoc, save his people? For he has a secret weapon - the terrifying Quetzal-Owl …
In today’s episode, Dominic and Tom tell the story of the Siege of Tenochtitlan - the last stand of the Aztec warriors, as the Spanish and their allies close in for the kill.
*Dominic’s book The Fall of the Aztecs is available now from bookshops across the UK - the perfect Christmas present!*
*The Rest Is History Live Tour 2023*:
Tom and Dominic are back on tour this autumn! See them live in New Zealand and Australia!
Buy your tickets here: restishistorypod.com
Twitter:
@TheRestHistory
@holland_tom
@dcsandbrook
Producer: Theo Young-Smith
Executive Producers: Jack Davenport + Tony Pastor
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The Rest Is History 
