1. Conquest of the Aztec Empire: Cortes and his forces successfully defeated the Aztec Empire, one of the most powerful civilizations in the Americas at the time. The city of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, was captured and razed, leading to the eventual collapse of the empire.
2. Establishment of Spanish Rule: After the conquest, Cortes established Spanish rule in Mexico and became the first governor of New Spain. This marked the beginning of over three centuries of Spanish colonial rule in Mexico.
3. Cultural Exchange: The encounter between the Spanish and indigenous societies resulted in a substantial cultural exchange. European goods, customs, and diseases were introduced to the region, while the Spanish adopted numerous aspects of Aztec culture and knowledge.
4. Spread of Christianity: The Spanish conquest also paved the way for the spread of Christianity in Mexico. Catholic missionaries accompanied the conquistadors and actively proselytized among the indigenous population.
5. Exploration of North America: Cortes' conquest of Mexico served as a launching point for further Spanish exploration of North America. Several expeditions were launched from Mexico to explore the American Southwest and California.
6. Acquisition of Wealth and Resources: The conquest provided the Spanish with access to significant wealth and resources, including gold, silver, and other valuable commodities, which were shipped back to Spain.
7. Demographic Changes: The arrival of the Spanish resulted in a massive demographic decline among the indigenous population. Disease, war, and disruption of traditional ways of life caused a sharp drop in the native population.
8. Political Transformations: Cortes' conquest laid the foundation for the establishment of the Viceroyalty of New Spain, which governed Mexico and other Spanish territories in the Americas for over 300 years.
Overall, Cortes' results had a profound and lasting impact on Mexico and the wider Americas, shaping the course of history and transforming the political, cultural, and demographic landscape of the region.