Ancient history

What did Cortes think of the Aztecs?

Hernán Cortés had complex and evolving views of the Aztecs, shaped by his interactions with them and his role as a conquistador. Here are some key aspects of Cortés's views of the Aztecs:

1. Military Prowess: Cortés was impressed by the Aztecs' military strength and discipline. He recognized them as formidable adversaries and admired their courage and skill on the battlefield.

2. Religious Beliefs: Cortés found Aztec religious practices to be shocking and incomprehensible. He often described them in highly negative terms, using words like "barbaric" and "demonic" to characterize their rituals, including human sacrifice.

3. Political Structure: Cortés initially respected the Aztec political system, particularly the power and authority of the emperor Moctezuma II. However, as he gained more knowledge about Aztec politics, he began to see vulnerabilities and divisions within their empire.

4. Cultural Superiority: Cortés believed in the inherent superiority of European culture and Christianity. He saw the Aztecs as inferior and often justified his conquest as a mission to bring civilization and religion to them.

5. Economic Opportunity: Cortés recognized the wealth and resources of the Aztec empire, including gold, silver, and precious stones. He was driven by greed and the desire for personal gain, which fueled his determination to conquer the Aztecs.

6. Changing Perceptions: As the conquest unfolded, Cortés's views of the Aztecs evolved. He grew to appreciate certain aspects of their culture and way of life, such as their craftsmanship, art, and agricultural practices.

Overall, Cortés's views of the Aztecs were colored by his position as a conqueror and his religious and cultural beliefs. While he admired their military prowess and cultural achievements, he also saw them as inferior and deserving of conquest.