Cuauhtémoc

Profession: The Last Aztec Emperor

Nationality:

Biography: Cuauhtémoc was the last Aztec Emperor who reigned during the final years of the Aztec Empire. He is remembered for his resistance against the Spanish Conquistadors and his determination to uphold the traditions and independence of his people, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Coming to power in 1520, Cuauhtémoc inherited an empire in crisis. The Spanish forces led by Hernán Cortés had already arrived, and the previous emperor, Moctezuma II, had been killed. Despite these circumstances, Cuauhtémoc refused to surrender to the Spanish and led his people in a fierce resistance.

One of the defining moments of Cuauhtémoc's reign was the siege of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, in 1521. Despite facing a well-armed Spanish force and their indigenous allies, Cuauhtémoc and his warriors held out for several months. However, the superior weaponry and tactics of the Spanish, combined with the devastating effects of smallpox, eventually led to the fall of Tenochtitlan.

After the fall of the city, Cuauhtémoc was captured by the Spanish. He lived under their control for several years, during which he continued to be a symbol of resistance for his people. In 1525, however, he was executed by Cortés, who feared that he was plotting an uprising.

Died: February 28, 1525
Cause of Death: Tortured and executed by Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés