The conquest of Mexico and Peru: Context and motives

The conquest of Mexico and Peru: Context and motives

The Conquest of Mexico: Context and Motives

Geographical Context

• The Aztec Empire was located in modern-day central Mexico, encompassing diverse landscapes from tropical coastlines, to mountainous highlands, to arid deserts.
• Mexico was rich in mineral resources, notably silver and gold, which made the region economically attractive to foreigners.

Political Context

• The Aztecs ruled through a structured hierarchical system with the Tlatoani or emperor at the top.
• Aztec supremacy was maintained by exacting tributes from conquered peoples, which led to resentment and rebellion - a source of instability that the Spaniards later exploited.

Socio-Cultural Context

• The Aztecs revered various deities, and their practice of human sacrifice to appease the gods was considered barbaric by the Spaniards.
• The Spanish, on the other hand, were on a mission to spread Catholicism, which they regarded as their sacred duty.

Economical Context

• The Aztec Empire’s wealth was displayed in its opulent cities and palaces, piquing the greed of the Spanish conquistadors.
• The potential for economic gain from new trade routes, taxes, and access to untouched resources was a significant incentive for the Spanish conquest.

Motives for Conquest

• The ruthless pursuit of wealth was an essential driver behind the conquest. Legends of cities paved with gold, such as El Dorado, fueled this obsession.
• Spanish religious fervor was another crucial motive. They aimed to convert indigenous peoples to Catholicism.
• The desire for fame and status, along with a spirit of adventure and exploration, propelled many Spaniards to join these expeditions and brave the unknown.

The Conquest of Peru: Context and Motives

Geographical Context

• The Inca Empire, or Tahuantinsuyu, was situated along the Andean mountain range in South America. Modern-day Peru was at its heart.
• The Inca lands were agriculturally rich, made even more productive by the complex network of terrace farms and irrigation systems.

Political Context

• The Incas also had a hierarchical model of governance with the Sapa Inca or divine emperor at its head.
• The empire was divided into quarters, each managed by its governor, with stringent rules and heavy taxes, which created disgruntlement amongst those controlled.

Socio-cultural Context

• The Inca people practiced many rituals and ceremonies in honor of their gods. Spanish conquistadors viewed these as heretical and sought to “purify” the Incas through conversion to Christianity.
• Inca communication relied on a system of knotted cords, known as quipu—a unique and unfamiliar concept for the Spanish explorers.

Economical Context

• Peru was especially attractive for its rich silver mines, namely the legendary Potosí.
• The Incas also amassed incredible wealth through regular tributes from their subjects, enticing potential conquerors.

Motives for Conquest

• The pursuit of wealth and treasure was a key driver in the conquest, as the potential spoils of the Inca kingdom were alluring.
• The Spanish also viewed the natives’ rich cultures as an opportunity to establish new settlements and expand their empire.
• Much like the conquest of Mexico, the fervor to spread Christianity and convert indigenous peoples was a significant motive.