Who was Hernan Cortes and how was he a clever leader? Short response.

Hernan Cortes was a Spanish conquistador (1485-1547) who conquered large parts of what is now mainland Mexico in the name of the King of Castile. He is a largely controversial figure, most known for overthrowing the Aztec Empire's leader, Montezuma ll. He captured the Aztec's leaders and brought diseases their immune systems could not handle. During the 16th century, he and his men captured the largest portion of land in North America. He was a clever leader because of the Spaniard's technological advancements, and his army strategy. Much of his power came from manipulating the conquered people through threatening their leaders.