This video provides a brief excerpt from the first letter of Hernán Cortés to Charles V. The complete letter is a comprehensive account that encompasses various topics such as geography, people, religion, and society. In this particular segment, Hernán Cortés focuses on describing the Aztec society and their religious practices, including human sacrifice. Hernán Cortés, born in Medellín, Spain in 1485 and deceased in 1547, is primarily known for his involvement in the conquest of Mexico, which was the defining moment of his life. Prior to this, Cortés studied at the University of Salamanca and participated in Spain's conquest of Hispaniola and Cuba in 1506. He eventually became a municipal official in Cuba before assuming command of an expedition to secure the interior of Mexico in 1518. Cortés's letters play a crucial role in understanding the early Spanish presence in Mexico. These letters, written in a simple yet detailed style, were addressed to the king and recounted Spain's gradual expansion into new territories. Unfortunately, the first letter, dated July 1519, has been lost. However, the second and third letters were published in Seville in 1522 and 1523, respectively, while the fourth letter was published in Toledo in 1525. The fifth letter remained unpublished until 1842. The second letter, which is presented here, originates from Segura de la Sierra and is dated October 30, 1520. Written in eloquent Castilian Spanish, this letter provides valuable insights into the province of Culua, particularly the magnificent cities within it, including "Tenustitlan" (Tenochtitlán) situated on Lake Texcoco. Cortés expresses great admiration for the Aztec king, Moctezuma (Montezuma), describing his people's loyalty and their elaborate rituals and ceremonies. The letter recounts significant events related to the Spanish entry into New Spain, such as the surrender of the chief of Cempoala, the procession towards the capital, the alliance formed with the Tlaxcaltecas, initial encounters with Moctezuma's ambassadors, and the meeting with the Aztec chief in Tenochtitlán. Cortés also details the destruction of the ships, the harrowing "night of sorrows" during which he and his men fought their way out of the city, and the events leading to their departure from the capital. These letters by Cortés garnered considerable interest in Europe, leading to numerous editions being published in cities such as Antwerp, Nuremberg, Augsburg, and Venice. This attests to the fascination and curiosity sparked by the events unfolding in the New World. Aztech peoples characteristics: 00:00 Aztech Religion: 03:57 Outro: 08.25