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Case study: Spanish conquest of the Aztec and Incan Empires

The arrival of Europeans in the Americas towards the end of the 15th Century was a turning point in history. The exploration and conquest of America connected societies that, so far, had never had any interaction. Men and women, political and religious institutions were affected by this unequal relationship that was established between the European invaders and the American peoples invaded.

1. The Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire

At the turn of the XVI century, the Aztec Empire was reaching its climax. However, it was also about to come face to face with another, much more powerful expansionist movement. The conquest of the Aztec...

2. The Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire

In 1533 the Inca Empire was the largest in the world. However, when Francisco Pizarro arrived in 1530 from Peru with just 180 men and 27 horses he was made to able take advantage of certain weaknesses...

3. Conquest of Aztec and Inca Empires: Effects

The conquest of the Aztec and Inca populations by the Spanish transformed the continent. The Aztec and Inca populations were subjugated and the political, economic, religious, social and territorial...

4. Spanish conquest of the Aztec and Incan Empires: Essay planning

Here are some suggested essay titles and ideas to help with planning.Write an essay plan for the following question:To what extent were economic causes more important than political causes in the Spanish...

5. Spanish conquest of the Aztec and Inca Empires: Extra Resources

Here you can find just a small section of the websites and texts that students might find find enjoyable to develop their understanding further, as well suggestions for movies and fiction on this topic.

6. Spanish conquest of the Aztec and Incan Empires: Videos

Here are some videos in addition to those which are integrated into the ATL pages.The first 30 minutes of this documentary which can be found on vimeo here gives a good overview of the nature of the Aztec...

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