Question

How and why did the Spanish defeat the Mexica, despite being so outnumbered? Does this say anything about Spanish and Mexica culture?

Both the Spanish and Mexica (Aztecsc) had cultures and religions that were based on violence and the concept of sacrifice. In what ways were the Spanish and Mexica cultures different and similar? How did they view each other when they came into contact? Is it correct to call either of them more "civilized"? Explain.

Answer 1

Spanish conquest took place between 1519 and 1521. This conquest took place under the leadership of Herman Cortes. He conquered the Aztec Empire. Aztecs had seen several bad omens. According to the culture of Aztec these omens means something bad was going to happen.

There were basically three factors responsible for the defeat of Aztec empire. Small pox killed hundreds of thousands of native Americans. This weakened the Aztec Empire. This created political and social instability. Second reason was the superior weaponry system of Herman Cortes. Spanish had steel weapons.

They also had cannons and horses. All these advantages helped them in winning over much larger Aztec army. It is being said that Mexico is not Mexico without Spain. Mexico is much more unequal then Spain in terms of Income Inequality.

String instruments are more common in both the countries. Average Mexican has more Indian blood than Spanish Blood. Mexico's culture can be said more richer as compared to Spain's culture. Mexican cuisine is super influenced by the indigenous people of the America. Spanish cuisine does not have such influences.

It is not correct to call one civilisation more elite. One culture may be good in some aspect while other may have speciality in some other terms. Each country has some sort of speciality. They may have different cultures and traditions. We should respect their diversity. We should enjoy the blend of diversities rather making criticism.