History Daily: Conquistador Hernán Cortés Arrives in Mexico

Hosted by Lindsey Graham | Released on March 4, 2025

Introduction: Setting the Stage

On March 4, 1519, the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés embarked on a pivotal expedition that would forever alter the course of history in the New World. Departing from Havana, Cuba, Cortés led a fleet of 11 ships and over 600 men with ambitions of wealth, glory, and the spread of Christianity. This episode delves into the intricate events that unfolded as Cortés arrived on the shores of Mexico, highlighting his strategic maneuvers, confrontations with indigenous civilizations, and the profound impact of his actions on the region.

Defiance and Determination: Ignoring Orders

Lindsey Graham recounts the tumultuous beginnings of Cortés' expedition:

"Cortes has not made himself popular with the local aristocracy during his time in Cuba, so the governor is canceling Cortes' expedition to Mexico. Cortes is stunned. Everything he's worked so hard for is about to slip away, but he refuses to accept defeat."
— Lindsey Graham (00:00)

Undeterred by the Spanish governor's decree to cancel his mission, Cortés demonstrated remarkable resolve. He rallied his crew, declaring, "We'll be leaving sooner than expected," effectively defying official orders. This bold move not only showcased his leadership but also galvanized his men, many of whom chose to join his expedition despite the risks involved.

First Encounters: Cozumel and the Maya

Upon reaching Cozumel, an island off the Mexican mainland, Cortés and his men encountered the sophisticated Maya society. Initially impressed by their architectural prowess and cultural richness, they soon discovered disturbing practices:

"The inhabitants of Cozumel performed human and animal sacrifices here to appease their gods."
— Lindsey Graham (03:54)

As devout Christians, Cortés viewed it as his mission to convert the Maya to Catholicism. He ordered the purification of a blood-stained altar chamber and the destruction of indigenous statues, compelling the Maya to abandon their traditional beliefs or face death. This act of forced conversion was both a display of dominance and a strategic move to weaken the local resistance.

Strategic Alliances and Military Superiority

Advancing towards the Yucatán Peninsula, Cortés faced escalating tensions as word of his ruthless actions spread. Upon making landfall, his fleet was met by thousands of Maya warriors. Despite being outnumbered, the Spanish forces leveraged superior technology and military tactics:

"The Spaniards have several advantages. The first is superior technology... the Europeans wear metal armor and have 10 brass cannons."
— Lindsey Graham (03:54)

The introduction of horses into the battlefield proved decisive. The Maya, unfamiliar with these animals, were terrified and disoriented, leading to a swift and overwhelming Spanish victory with minimal casualties on their side. In the aftermath, the subdued Maya offered Cortés gifts of food, gold, and captives, further cementing his authority.

Diplomacy and Deception: Encounter with the Aztecs

A significant turning point was Cortés' interaction with the Aztec empire, one of the most powerful indigenous civilizations in Mexico. An emissary named Tetuil sought to understand Cortés' intentions, leading to an initial exchange of gifts:

"Cortes gives Tetuil an armored helmet and requests it be sent back filled with gold... Montezuma sends back dozens of glittering treasures."
— Lindsey Graham (10:51)

Despite the generosity of Montezuma, the Aztec emperor refused to meet Cortés, heightening tensions. Recognizing the need for effective communication, Cortés enlisted Malinzin, a young woman fluent in both Aztec and Mayan languages, to serve as a translator. This strategic alliance facilitated preliminary diplomatic efforts, although Montezuma remained elusive.

Establishing Vera Cruz: Securing a Stronghold

Facing potential rebellion and seeking a defensible position, Cortés established the first permanent European settlement in Mexico—Veracruz. Collaborating with the Teutonics, a discontented local tribe oppressed by the Aztecs, Cortés fortified his camp, ensuring a stable base from which to launch further conquests.

"Cortes names it Vera Cruz... Malinzen has become the conquistador's mistress as well."
— Lindsey Graham (10:51)

Mutiny and Consolidation of Power

By June 1519, internal strife threatened Cortés' expedition as his men grew weary and desired to return to Cuba with their newfound wealth. Predicting a mutiny, Cortés took drastic measures:

"He executes the ringleaders of the mutiny... Cortes sends a message to his men and to the Aztecs that the Spaniards are in Mexico for good."
— Lindsey Graham (16:35)

Scuttling his fleet to eliminate the possibility of retreat, Cortés demonstrated unwavering commitment to his mission. This decisive action not only quelled dissent but also signaled to both his men and the indigenous populations that his intentions were irrevocable.

Legacy: The Fall of the Aztec Empire

Cortés' relentless pursuit led to the eventual downfall of the Aztec empire. Through a combination of military might, strategic alliances, and the inadvertent introduction of devastating diseases like smallpox, the once-mighty civilization was decimated. Cortés' conquest resulted in profound cultural and demographic shifts, laying the foundation for modern Mexico.

"From Mexico, Cortes will then continue to explore Central America... He is remembered most as a cruel conqueror motivated by greed and racism."
— Lindsey Graham (16:35)

Conclusion: A Changed World

Hernán Cortés' arrival in Mexico marked the beginning of a transformative era. While his actions led to immense suffering and the destruction of indigenous cultures, they also irrevocably shaped the geopolitical landscape of the Americas. Today, Cortés is a complex figure—both a symbol of European expansion and a testament to the devastating impact of colonialism.

Next Episode Preview: March 5, 1825 – One of the last pirates of the Caribbean is hunted at sea, then captured on land.

Credits: Produced by Noiser and Airship. Hosted, edited, and executive produced by Lindsey Graham. Audio editing by Mohammed Shahzeeb. Sound design by Matthew Filler. Music by Lindsey Graham. Written and researched by Jack O'Brien. Edited by Joel Callan. Managing Producer Emily Burke. Executive producers William Simpson for Airship and Pascal Hughes for Noiser.