How did cortés convince Montezuma to welcome him initially

Answer 1

Hernán Cortés, a Spanish conquistador, used various methods to convince Montezuma, the ruler of the Aztec Empire, to welcome him initially.

1. Show of force: Cortés arrived in Mexico with a small army, but he portrayed himself as a representative of a powerful Spanish empire. He showcased his military might and canons, which greatly impressed Montezuma and made him apprehensive of Spanish retaliation if he did not cooperate.

2. Manipulation of religious beliefs: Cortés exploited the Aztec belief in Quetzalcoatl, a god or deity who was believed to have left the empire long ago but was prophesied to return. Cortés and his men were often mistaken for the deity due to their light complexion and bearded appearance. Therefore, Cortés strategically presented himself as the returning deity, using it as a way to gain a foothold and win over Montezuma's trust.

3. Diplomacy and gifts: Cortés sent envoys to Montezuma bearing lavish gifts, diplomatic messages, and promises of alliance and friendship. These envoys aimed to establish dialogue and peaceful relations, despite Cortés' later intention to conquer the Aztec Empire. The extravagant gifts impressed Montezuma and further motivated him to welcome the Spaniards and offer them hospitality.

4. Rumors of divine support: Cortés spread rumors among indigenous communities that the Spanish army had divine support and invincibility. This cultivated fear and awe among the Aztecs, making them more willing to cooperate with Cortés for fear of divine retribution.

Overall, Cortés employed a combination of military intimidation, manipulation of religious devotion, diplomatic gestures, and psychological warfare to convince Montezuma to initially welcome him.