385. The Fall of the Aztecs: The Woman Who Changed The World (Part 2)

This co-hosted history podcast episode delves into the Spanish conquest of Mexico, focusing on Hernán Cortés's expedition. The hosts discuss Cortés's motives (a mix of religious zeal and ambition), his initial instructions from the governor of Cuba, and his strategic maneuvers, including the crucial role of La Malinche as a translator and advisor. They highlight the technological advantages the Spanish possessed (swords, horses, and dogs) and challenge the common misconception that the Aztecs believed Cortés to be a god. The episode concludes by setting the stage for Cortés's march on Tenochtitlan, emphasizing the complex political landscape and the pivotal role of La Malinche in navigating it. A specific example is the discussion of the "requirement," a legal document read to subjugated peoples, illustrating the Spanish emphasis on legal justification for their actions.