Hernando Cortés was a famed Spanish conquistador who played a significant role in the conquest of the Aztec Empire. Born on December 2nd, under the zodiac sign of Sagittarius, in Spain, Cortés would go on to become one of the most well-known explorers and conquerors in history.
Cortés was born into a noble family in Spain, and from a young age, it was expected that he would follow in his parents' footsteps and become a lawyer. To fulfill their wishes, he attended a prestigious Spanish university, where he gained the knowledge and skills that would later serve him well in his conquests.
One of Cortés' most famous achievements was leading an expedition that resulted in the decimation of the Aztec Empire. Despite not being awarded the title of viceroy as he had hoped, he was named Marques del Valle de Oaxoaca, a title of great significance in Spanish society.
After completing his education, Cortés embarked on a career as a Spanish explorer, setting his sights on the New World. He was among the first Spanish settlers to initiate the Spanish colonization of the Americas, establishing a reputation for himself as a bold and fearless leader.
Cortés was married to a woman named Dona Marina, with whom he had a son named Martin Cortes. Martin was considered The First Mestizo, a term used to describe someone of mixed European and indigenous American heritage. The family dynamic played a significant role in Cortés' life, shaping his decisions and actions as a conqueror.
Like his contemporary, Christopher Columbus, Cortés died a wealthy but embittered man. His legacy as a conquistador continues to be a topic of debate and discussion, with some praising his accomplishments and others condemning his actions. Regardless of one's opinion, there is no denying the impact that Hernando Cortés had on the history of the Americas.
In conclusion, Hernando Cortés was a complex and controversial figure in history, known for his bold expeditions and conquests in the New World. His legacy continues to be studied and debated by historians and scholars, offering insight into the complexities of colonialism and exploration during the Age of Exploration.