Spain of the Golden Age

A series of vocabulary flashcards covering significant terms and concepts related to the Spain of the Golden Age.

Smallpox (External Factor)

A major biological factor where the introduction of the variola virus caused an epidemic that decimated the Aztec population, killing between 40\% and 90\% of inhabitants, including the leader Cuitláhuac, and severely weakening their military defense.

Steel and Gunpowder (External Factor)

Technological superiority involving the use of steel (Fe) blades, armor, and firearms (arquebuses) which outperformed Aztec obsidian-edged weapons (macuahuitl) in direct combat.

The Tlaxcalan Alliance (Internal Factor)

The mobilization of indigenous enemies of the Aztecs, specifically the Tlaxcalans, who provided the Spanish with thousands of warriors and essential logistical support, effectively turning the conquest into a civil war.

Aztec Tribute System (Internal Factor)

An internal political weakness where the heavy demands for tribute and sacrificial victims from conquered city-states created widespread resentment, making those states eager to join the Spanish against Tenochtitlan.

Naval Blockade and Brigantines (External Factor)

Cortés's strategy of building 13 specialized ships to dominate Lake Texcoco, which allowed the Spanish to cut off food and fresh water supplies to the island city of Tenochtitlan during the final siege.

Moctezuma II's Indecisiveness (Internal Factor)

Internal leadership failure characterized by the Emperor's initial hesitation and diplomatic approach toward the Spanish, which allowed Cortés to be welcomed into the city and eventually take the leader hostage.

Malintzin's Intelligence (External/Internal Bridge)

The role of La Malinche as a translator and strategist who provided the Spanish with critical information regarding Aztec internal politics, rivalries, and the vulnerabilities of the Triple Alliance.

Political Fragmentation (Internal Factor)

The lack of a unified indigenous front caused by the decentralized nature of the Aztec Empire, which allowed the Spanish to employ a 'divide and conquer' strategy among various ethnic groups.