Hernan Cortéz was a courageous explorer who lived in the 1400 and 1500s. He is mostly famous for discovering Mexico and conquering the Aztec empire.

Hernan Cortéz was born in Medellin, Spain in 1485. Cortéz’s parents, Martin Cortéz de Monroy and Doña Catalina Pizzaro Altamarino, both came from old, respected spanish families, however, they were no longer rich. Hernan learned how to ride a horse and use a sword. He did both expertly.

Cortéz was a Conquistador, or someone who wanted to gain gold and land for Spain plus glory for themselves. He sailed to Mexico to claim it for spain. While there he heard of the massive wealth of the Aztecs. In about four years, Cortéz had fought many battles, made friends, enemies, became extremely wealthy, and had many near death experiences.

Cortéz died in 1547, at the age of 63. He might have died because his skull was fractured and two fingers were amputated, or a combination of the two. This implies that he may have died a violent death.

It is evident that Cortéz was an important explorer of the 14 ad 1500s.

Bibliography

1. Hernan Cortéz by Brendan January 2003 Reed Educational & Professional Publishing

2. The Expeditions of Cortéz by Nigel Hunter 1990 The Bookwrite Press

3. Library.thinkquest.org/4034/cortes.html