Discussion #2

In Memoirs Bernal Diaz del Castillo describes the sights the Spanish conquistadors beheld in the Aztec capital Tenochtitlán. He comments that when they entered the Aztec market, they were "… astounded at the great number of people and the quantities of merchandise, and at the orderliness and good arrangements that prevailed, for we had never seen such a thing before…." It would seem that they were highly surprised at the level of development the Aztec empire displayed. In fact, the Aztecs and Spaniards had much in common. Nevertheless, a relatively small band of conquistadors led by Cortés will bring down the Aztec empire.

The Europeans who follow will repeat some of the feats of the Spaniards who preceded them. However, the Spanish will be the ones to carry the "Black Legend" label, alluding to their atrocities in the Americas.

In order to prepare for this discussion forum:

1. 1. Review and identify the relevant content in Chapter 2 to support your discussion.
   2. Read the full text of Bernal Diaz del Castillo's comments from his Memoirs.

After you have completed your reading, post your answers to only ONE of the following questions.

1. 1. Could the direction of discovery and colonization in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries have been reversed, that is, could the Aztecs have discovered and colonized western Europe? Why or why not?
   2. English adventurers and Spanish conquistadors were "brothers under the skin." To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
   3. Upon reading the linked document, what evidence can you find that the Spanish were indeed awed by the Aztec empire and that this was a highly developed civilization?

In order to earn the full credit points for this assignment, students must discuss at least one question, and respond to a fellow student's postings:

1. Directly and completely to the question that you selected. Clearly and accurately explain your answer based on factual information contained in the readings. Make sure that all statements are supported with facts from the readings (80 points).
2. Students must respond to at least one fellow student's posting and discuss the reason(s) for their agreement or disagreement, with the arguments that are presented. You must address specific points, and support your response with facts from the readings and other sources. (20 points).
3. Students can choose to respond to any posting, they do have to respond to a posting that discusses the question they addressed.

Reminder: Please make sure to comply with all Netiquette Guidelines listed in the Getting Started module.