Key People

Italian navigator who sailed for Spain. In 1492 he reached Caribbean islands while seeking a new route to Asia. His voyages began lasting links between Europe and the Americas.

Leader of the expedition that defeated the Aztec Empire. Used steel weapons, horses, and thousands of Indigenous allies who opposed Aztec rule.

Conquistador who captured the Inca ruler Atahualpa in 1532 and later occupied the Inca capital Cuzco. The empire fell in the following decades.

Ruler of the Aztec Empire when the Spanish arrived. He faced internal pressures and new diseases while negotiating with Cortés.

Last ruling Sapa Inca before Spanish rule. Captured at Cajamarca after a surprise meeting with Pizarro; executed in 1533.

Nahua woman who translated and advised for Cortés. She spoke Maya and Nahuatl and helped the Spanish communicate with many groups.