Hernando Cortes meets the Tlaxcaltec Chief (litho)

Hernando Cortes meets the Tlaxcaltec Chief. On 4 March 1519, Cortes landed on the coast of Mexico. Advancing along the gulf, he took possession of the town of Tabasco, where he learnt of the native sovereign Montezuma, and resolved to undertake the conquest of his rich and powerful empire. After laying the foundations of Vera Cruz, the Spanish leader penetrated into the interior of Mexico, inducing those native princes who were hostile to Montezuma to facilitate his passage through the country. The republic of Tlaxcala opposed him, but Cortes routed its army, and by dictating peace on moderate terms converted the people into powerful auxiliaries. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson, c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.