Hernán Cortés
- Born:
- Medellín, Crown of Castile, 1485
- Died:
- Castilleja de la Cuesta, Crown of Castile, December 2, 1547
- Nationality:
- Castilian (Spanish)
- Profession(s):
- Conquistador, Explorer, Governor
Early Life and Education
- Born into a noble but not wealthy family.
- Sent to study law at the University of Salamanca, but left without completing a degree.
- Sought adventure and opportunity in the New World.
Career and Major Achievements
- Arrived in Hispaniola (present-day Dominican Republic and Haiti) in 1504.
- Participated in the conquest of Cuba under Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar.
- Led an expedition to Mexico in 1519, defying Velázquez's orders.
- Formed alliances with indigenous groups, notably the Tlaxcalans, who were enemies of the Aztec Empire.
- Conquered the Aztec Empire between 1519 and 1521.
- Established the colony of New Spain.
- Served as Governor of New Spain (briefly).
Notable Works
- Cartas de Relación (Letters from Mexico): A series of letters to Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, detailing his expedition and conquest.
Legacy and Impact
Hernán Cortés's conquest of the Aztec Empire fundamentally altered the course of history in the Americas, leading to the establishment of Spanish colonial rule in Mexico. His actions resulted in the subjugation of indigenous populations and the introduction of European culture, religion, and diseases, significantly impacting the demographic and cultural landscape of the region. The account often titled "biography of hernan cortez" typically explores the lasting consequences of his actions.