In this episode of join hosts Paul and Ritchie as they unravel the complex and turbulent life of Hernán Cortés, the man who toppled an empire.

Our journey begins in the early 1500s, with Cortés' ambitious departure from Spain to the New World. We explore his initial years in Hispaniola and Cuba, setting the stage for his audacious conquest. Learn about the intricate blend of ambition, strategy, and sheer audacity that propelled Cortés from a young adventurer to the conqueror of the mighty Aztec Empire.

Witness the pivotal moments of his campaign: from the strategic alliances with indigenous groups to the brutal Massacre at Cholula and the cunning subjugation of Tenochtitlan. We bring to life the Siege of Tenochtitlan, a harrowing tale of warfare, resilience, and devastation, which marked the end of the Aztec Empire.

Delve into the psyche of Cortés through his relationships with key figures like La Malinche, his Nahua interpreter and advisor, whose role was crucial in his dealings with indigenous nations. We analyze how Cortés' leadership was marked by both brilliant strategy and ruthless tactics, a duality that defines his historical legacy.

In the aftermath of conquest, we follow Cortés through his later years — a period of political struggles, diminishing power, and eventual obscurity. How did the man who achieved one of the most remarkable military feats in history face his own decline?

Finally, we reflect on Cortés' complex legacy: a figure admired for his military genius but also reviled for the destruction and suffering he brought to the New World. We discuss how his actions reshaped the Americas and left an indelible mark on world history.

Don't miss this episode where we dissect the life of Hernán Cortés, a figure as fascinating as he is controversial, and whose story is a testament to the power and peril of ambition and conquest. Tune in to delve into the saga of a man who forever changed the course of history.