What was the historical significance of Hernando Cortes?

Answer 1

Hernando Cortés was a Spanish conquistador known for leading the expedition that resulted in the fall of the Aztec Empire in 1521. His conquest significantly altered the course of history in the Americas, leading to Spanish colonization and the spread of European culture, religion, and governance. Cortés's actions also initiated a period of profound demographic, social, and economic changes, including the decimation of indigenous populations due to disease and conflict. His expeditions marked the beginning of a widespread European presence in the New World, which would have lasting implications for global history.