391. The Fall of the Aztecs: The Last Emperor (Part 8)
Nov 23, 2023
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The fall of Tenochtitlan marks a pivotal moment in history, with Hernán Cortés emerging as a seeming victor. Yet, the last Aztec emperor, Cuauhtemoc, still holds a crucial narrative. The podcast dives into the dark aftermath of conquest, exploring the resilience of the indigenous population and the cultural transformations in Mexico. It critically examines the legacy of Spanish imperialism and the complex narratives surrounding colonizers and natives, revealing an intricate tapestry of betrayal, adaptation, and enduring beliefs that still resonate today.
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Quick takeaways
The Spanish conquest of Mexico had devastating impacts on the indigenous population, resulting in widespread exploitation, violence, and atrocities.
Hernan Cortes, the Spanish conquistador, had a mixed legacy and is seen as a symbol of colonialism, exploitation, and violence in Mexico.
The conquest of the Aztecs shaped the future of the Americas and established a template for European expansion and colonization worldwide.
Deep dives
The Consequences of the Spanish Conquest
The Spanish conquest of Mexico had profound consequences for the indigenous people, the land, and the Spanish themselves. The arrival of smallpox, brought by the Europeans, played a devastating role in wiping out large portions of the indigenous population. While the conquistadors aimed to find gold and riches, their brutal tactics and lust for wealth led to widespread exploitation, violence, and atrocities. The conquest also had far-reaching cultural and political impacts, as the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan was destroyed and replaced by a new Spanish city, Mexico City. Indigenous people, including the Aztec aristocracy, were forced to adapt to Spanish rule and religious conversion, while some managed to maintain their ancestral traditions within the Spanish legal framework. Overall, the conquest established a template for European colonization and triggered a period of European dominance in the Americas.
The Legacy of Hernan Cortes
Hernan Cortes, the Spanish conquistador who led the conquest of Mexico, was a complex figure with mixed legacies. He is often celebrated as a heroic figure in Spain, with statues and recognition in his honor. However, in Mexico, his reputation is highly controversial and seen as a symbol of colonialism, exploitation, and violence. Cortes' pursuit of wealth and power led to accusations of murder and extreme cruelty, including rumors that he killed his wife. Despite his achievements, Cortes eventually faded into obscurity and died as a forgotten man. The story of Cortes serves as a reminder of the dark and ruthless nature of conquest and colonization.
The Question of Indigenous Resistance and Alternative Histories
The question of whether the Aztecs could have maintained their independence from the Spanish remains a matter of debate. The divided nature of Mesoamerica and the inevitable arrival of Europeans suggest that some form of European presence would have occurred regardless of the success or failure of Cortes' expedition. While the determined resistance and resilience of indigenous peoples is commendable, it is unlikely that they could have completely repelled European forces. The devastating impact of disease, the desire for wealth, and the geopolitical rivalries of the time all contributed to the ultimate conquest of Mexico. The conquest not only shaped the future of the Americas, but also established a template for European expansion and colonization worldwide.
The Virgin of Guadalupe: Origins and Syncretism
The podcast episode explores the origins and significance of the Virgin of Guadalupe, a key figure in Mexican culture. It is mentioned that the story of the Virgin appearing to Juan Diego and leaving an imprint on his cloak is likely a later fabrication. The podcast also highlights the syncretic nature of the Catholic faith in Mexico, where indigenous traditions and beliefs are intertwined with Christianity. The site where the Virgin appeared, known as the hill of Tepeyac, was already a sacred place for the Aztec goddesses. This indicates that the worship of the Virgin was not a complete break from ancestral traditions. The Catholic faith in Mexico also incorporates symbols and practices from pre-existing indigenous religions, fostering a complex and blended religious identity.
The Fate of Cortez and Malinche
The second part of the podcast focuses on the aftermath of the conquest of the Aztecs. Cortez, the Spanish conqueror, is portrayed as a mediocre leader who struggles with governance. He falls out of favor with his fellow conquistadors and faces numerous lawsuits and accusations of corruption. The podcast mentions Cortez's unsuccessful expedition to Honduras and his attempt to track down his treacherous ally. The journey results in hardships and deaths due to hunger, disease, and treacherous terrain. Malinche, the indigenous woman who played a significant role as Cortez's interpreter and companion, fades away from historical records after returning to Mexico City. There are claims about her death, but no definitive evidence exists. The episode concludes by acknowledging the gripping and tragic nature of the conquest of the Aztecs, with heroes and villains found on both sides of the conflict.
Tenochtitlan, once the glittering jewel at the heart of the mighty Aztec Empire, has fallen. Hernán Cortés stands triumphant, the master of this New Spain. Or so it seems. For the last Aztec emperor, Cuauhtemoc, is still alive and well. And in the jungles of Mexico and Honduras, a dark and bloody story is only just beginning …
In the final episode of this astonishing journey, Dominic and Tom discuss the aftermath of the fall of Tenochtitlan, the fates of Cuauhtemoc, Cortés and Malinche, the experiences of the local population and the story of Mexico in the decades after the Spanish conquest. As this mighty epic draws to a close, they also explore the Black Legend of Spanish imperialism, and discuss the long-term repercussions of the conquest and its status in the context of world history and politics today.
*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!
