What was the primary motivation for Hernán Cortés to lead a Spanish expedition to Mexico in 1519?

To establish new, peaceful trade routes with the Aztec Empire

He was drawn by stories of the region's significant gold and wealth

To map the coastline of the Americas for the Spanish king

He was sent to form a military alliance with the Aztecs against other tribes

What was the final outcome of the siege of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, in 1521?

A peace treaty was signed, establishing shared rule.

The city was captured and ultimately destroyed.

The Spanish forces were repelled and forced to retreat.

The Aztecs agreed to pay tribute to Spain but remained in power.

A large monument to the Spanish victory

A new capital named Mexico City

A series of farms to supply the Spanish

A trading post for European merchants

A surprise naval attack and a much larger invading army

The voluntary surrender of the Aztec emperor and his people

Advanced weaponry and strategic partnerships with Aztec rivals

The construction of a wall around Tenochtitlan and superior numbers