The most significant factors in the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs and Incas often highlighted by historians and writers include:
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Technology and Weaponry: The Spaniards had advanced weaponry, including firearms, cannons, and steel swords, which gave them a significant edge in battle.
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Alliances with Indigenous Peoples: The Spanish were able to form alliances with various Indigenous groups who were enemies of the Aztecs and Incas, allowing them to gather additional forces.
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Diseases: European diseases such as smallpox devastated Indigenous populations, significantly weakening them and leading to a loss of manpower and morale.
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Leadership and Strategy: The strategic military tactics employed by leaders like Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro played a crucial role in conquering these vast empires.
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Religious Factors: The Spaniards often framed their conquest in terms of a religious mission, seeing themselves as agents of conversion to Christianity, which could also be a motivating factor for their actions.
If you have a specific writer or work in mind, please provide that context so I can give a more precise answer reflecting their views.