ABSTRACT
The conquest of the Aztec Empire was a singular event in world history, and marked a new beginning for European colonization projects in America. The leader of the expedition into the heart of the Aztec Empire was a man from Medellin, Spain. Disease is critical factor that helps explain the rapid decline of the mighty Aztec Empire. The Aztecs were a people steeped in myth who adhered rigidly to their tradition. Their lives centered on interpreting the will of the gods and pleasing them, even though the deities were thought to be somewhat whimsical and vindictive. Aztec skepticism and doubt ran headlong into Spanish certainty and confidence. The Spaniards were assisted in their march from Veracruz to the Aztec capital through the forging of linkages with Aztec enemies, most notably at Tlaxcala, on the way to the capital.
