How was it possible for Hernán Cortés and the Spanish soldiers to conquer the Aztecs in Tenochtitlán when they were outnumbered by the Aztec forces?

Question

Group of answer choices

Cortés convinced the Aztecs to open up trade routes with Spain, which would greatly benefit their civilization.

The Aztecs immediately surrendered, so Cortés did not need to initiate force.

A combination of superior weaponry and a devastating smallpox outbreak.

Cortés formed an alliance with the Mayans and together, they attacked the Aztecs.

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

A combination of superior weaponry and a devastating smallpox outbreak.

Hernán Cortés and his forces used advanced military technology, such as firearms and steel weapons, which gave them a significant advantage over the Aztecs. Additionally, the arrival of smallpox devastated the Aztec population, significantly weakening their ability to resist the Spanish conquest. Cortés also formed alliances with various indigenous groups that were enemies of the Aztecs, which helped him further in his campaign.