However, as Cortes and the Spanish became more aware of the Aztec culture, religion, and political structure, tensions arose. Cortes had ambitions of conquering the Aztec Empire and gaining control of its resources and wealth. To achieve his goals, he employed various strategies, including forming alliances with rival indigenous groups and exploiting internal conflicts within the Aztec Empire.
As Cortes consolidated his power and gained more control over the region, his attitude toward Moctezuma changed. He became more assertive and demanding, treating Moctezuma as a captive rather than a sovereign ruler. Cortes placed Moctezuma under virtual house arrest, using him as a bargaining chip in negotiations and as a means of intimidating and controlling the Aztec population.
During the subsequent conflicts between the Spanish and the Aztecs, Moctezuma's role became complex. He was caught between his loyalty to his people and his desire to protect his own life and those of his family. In an effort to pacify the Aztecs and prevent further bloodshed, Moctezuma addressed his subjects from a rooftop, urging them to surrender to Cortes and accept Spanish rule. However, his speech was met with hostility, and he was pelted with stones and other projectiles by his own people, resulting in his death.
The treatment of Moctezuma by Cortes and the Spanish conquistadors ultimately contributed to the escalation of tensions and conflicts, leading to the eventual conquest and downfall of the Aztec Empire.