1. Gold and Wealth: The Aztec Empire was known for its vast wealth, particularly in the form of gold and other precious metals. The Spanish were eager to acquire these riches and were driven by the desire for material gain and economic expansion.
2. Religious Conversion: The Spanish were deeply religious and sought to spread Catholicism throughout the world. The Aztecs, on the other hand, practiced polytheistic religions, which were considered heretical by the Spanish. Cortes saw an opportunity to convert the indigenous people to Christianity.
3. Imperial Expansion: Spain sought to expand its territorial control and establish a global empire. The Aztec Empire was seen as a formidable rival, and its conquest would significantly enhance Spain's prestige and power in the region.
4. Political and Military Motives: Cortes and his fellow Conquistadors were ambitious and desired power and glory. They saw the conquest of the Aztecs as an opportunity to achieve personal fame and establish their place in history.
5. Aztec Internal Politics: Cortes skillfully exploited the existing tensions and conflicts within the Aztec Empire to gain support from disgruntled Aztec subjects and allies. These alliances weakened the Aztec resistance and helped Cortes in his campaign against them.
6. Technology and Tactics: The Spanish had superior military technology, such as firearms, cannons, and steel weapons, which gave them an advantage over the Aztecs. They also employed effective military strategies and tactics, such as surprise attacks and alliances with indigenous groups, to defeat the Aztecs.
It's important to recognize that the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire was a complex event with multiple motivations and consequences. The motives described above are interconnected, and the fight between Cortes and the Aztecs was driven by a combination of economic, religious, political, and military factors.