Cortes initially explored Cuba before conquering Mexico in the early 1500s. Cortes took advantage of internal political struggles within the Aztec empire and formed an alliance with indigenous city states, Tlaxcalans, who harbored animosity toward the Aztecs. Together, they marched to the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Cortes used a combination of military strategy, political maneuvering, and deception to defeat the Aztecs and capture their leader, Moctezuma.
In addition to his military tactics, Cortez also employed other strategies to undermine the Aztec empire. He disrupted their communication and supply lines, effectively cutting off their access to resources. He also exploited divisions within the Aztec society, gaining support from groups that were disaffected with the Aztec rule. Through a combination of military force and political manipulation, Cortez played a pivotal role in the downfall of the Aztec Empire.