The Aztecs believed in the prophecy of a white-skinned, bearded god who would come from the east and rule over them. This god was known as Quetzalcoatl, and he was worshipped as the god of wind and rain. The Aztecs believed that Quetzalcoatl had left them centuries before, but that he would one day return to restore their empire to its former glory.
When Hernán Cortés landed on the coast of Mexico in 1519, the Aztecs initially believed that he was Quetzalcoatl. They were impressed by his white skin, his beard, and his superior weaponry. They also believed that Cortés had come to fulfill the prophecy and restore their empire.
However, Cortés soon showed that he was not a god, but a ruthless conqueror. He quickly defeated the Aztecs and claimed Mexico for Spain. The Aztecs were devastated by their defeat, and they never recovered their former glory.