Mesoamerican Civilizations and Conquests

Miss Toy guides students through lesson 15, focusing on Hernan Cortez's conquest of the Aztecs. The lesson highlights the impact of Spanish colonization, including alliances, smallpox, and the eventual fall of the Aztec Empire. A comparison between the Maya and Aztec civilizations is also discussed, emphasizing their advanced cultures, writing systems, and interactions with Spanish explorers.

What was Hernan Cortez's primary goal upon arriving in Mexico?

• To establish trade relations

• To spread Christianity

• To explore new territories

• To conquer the Aztec Empire

What was the nature of the alliance Cortez formed with the enemies of the Aztecs?

• A military partnership

• A trade agreement

• A cultural exchange

• A religious pact

How did the Aztecs initially respond to Cortez's request to meet their king?

• They refused to meet him

• They welcomed him peacefully

• They sent a messenger instead

• They attacked his forces

What event led to the Aztec revolt against the Spaniards?

• The introduction of smallpox

• The massacre of unarmed Aztecs

• The imprisonment of Montezuma

• The destruction of Aztec temples

What factors contributed to the weakening of the Aztec Empire?

• Internal conflicts

• Lack of resources

• Disease and starvation

• Natural disasters

What was the new name given to the Aztec capital by Cortez?

• New Spain

• Cortezville

• Mexico City

• Tenochtitlan

Which civilization is known for constructing enormous pyramids?

• Mayans

• Aztecs

• Incas

• Olmecs

Which civilization developed a writing system and a calendar?

• Only the Aztecs

• Neither the Aztecs nor Mayans

• Both the Aztecs and Mayans

• Only the Mayans

Which civilization was led by a king named Montezuma?

• Incas

• Mayans

• Aztecs

• Olmecs

Which civilization mysteriously declined after the year 900?

• Aztecs

• Mayans

• Incas

• Olmecs