Which European explorer conquered the Aztecs of Mexico?

Which European explorer conquered the Aztecs of Mexico?

• A. Jacques Cartier
• B. Hernan Cortes
• C. Francisco Pizarro
• D. Hernando de Soto

Answer: (B)

Conquering the Aztec Empire shows how daring leadership, tactical alliances, and new technologies could topple a major empire. Hernán Cortés led the Spanish expedition into central Mexico, formed crucial alliances with the Tlaxcalans, and advanced on Tenochtitlán, the Aztec capital. He exploited internal divisions within the Aztec state, used European firearms and horses, and benefited from the devastating impact of smallpox among Indigenous populations. After a siege and multiple battles, the Spanish captured the city in 1521, establishing control over central Mexico. Jacques Cartier searched for routes and claims in what is now Canada, not Mexico. Francisco Pizarro conquered the Inca Empire in Peru. Hernando de Soto explored much of the southeastern United States and did not conquer the Aztecs.

Conquering the Aztec Empire shows how daring leadership, tactical alliances, and new technologies could topple a major empire. Hernán Cortés led the Spanish expedition into central Mexico, formed crucial alliances with the Tlaxcalans, and advanced on Tenochtitlán, the Aztec capital. He exploited internal divisions within the Aztec state, used European firearms and horses, and benefited from the devastating impact of smallpox among Indigenous populations. After a siege and multiple battles, the Spanish captured the city in 1521, establishing control over central Mexico.

Jacques Cartier searched for routes and claims in what is now Canada, not Mexico. Francisco Pizarro conquered the Inca Empire in Peru. Hernando de Soto explored much of the southeastern United States and did not conquer the Aztecs.