AP World History Practice Exam 2025 – The Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Hernan Cortes is recognized for his pivotal role in the fall of the Aztec Empire during the early 16th century. As a Spanish conquistador, he led an expedition that ultimately resulted in the capture of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire, in 1521. Cortes utilized a combination of military strategy, alliances with other Indigenous groups who were enemies of the Aztecs, and the impact of European diseases to undermine the Aztec forces. His interactions with the Aztec leader Moctezuma II and other local leaders were crucial in manipulating political alliances to his advantage.

Cortes's expedition exemplified the broader patterns of conquest that characterized Spanish imperial expansion in the Americas, establishing a precedent for subsequent colonial endeavors. His actions had long-lasting effects on the region, leading to significant cultural, social, and economic transformations. Therefore, his designation as the primary figure responsible for the downfall of the Aztec Empire is well-founded in historical context.