The Rest Is History cover image

The Rest Is History

387. The Fall of the Aztecs: Prisoners of Montezuma (Part 4)

Nov 13, 2023
Hernán Cortés and his Spanish comrades arrive in Tenochtitlan, the capital city of the Aztecs. Montezuma's plans are unclear, is he their guest or their captor? The Spaniards explore the grand city, but tensions rise. Cortés receives news that changes everything. The Fall of the Aztecs is a risky gamble.
46:24

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Montezuma saw the Spanish conquistadors as potential additions to his zoo-like collection, showcasing his power and dominion.
  • Montezuma took a defensive position and allowed himself to be taken hostage by Cortez to protect his rule and the stability of the Aztec empire.

Deep dives

Montezuma's Fascination with Collecting

Montezuma, the ruler of the Aztec empire, had a fascination with collecting various items, including serpents, wild animals, and people with physical deformities. He had a zoo-like collection that showcased the diversity of flora, fauna, and human races. This collection served as a display of his power and dominion. When the Spanish conquistadors arrived, Montezuma may have seen them as potential additions to his collection, either as exhibits in his zoo or as bodyguards. However, as tensions escalated and more Spanish newcomers arrived, Montezuma discovered that they were potential threats sent to apprehend Cortez. This discovery forced Montezuma to change his perspective and take a defensive position against the Spanish.

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