1521 Siege of Tenochtitlan

The Siege of Tenochtitlan in 1521 marked the fall of the Aztec Empire to Spanish conqueror Hernán Cortés. After initial alliances with certain indigenous tribes, Cortés faced a fierce defense from the Aztecs in their capital, Tenochtitlan. The siege lasted several months, involving blockades and intense fighting. Cortés's forces, aided by indigenous allies and advanced weaponry, ultimately overwhelmed the city. The capture of Tenochtitlan led to the collapse of Aztec rule and the establishment of Spanish dominance in Mexico, significantly impacting indigenous cultures and ushering in a new colonial era.