Cortez

Cortez is a name that can refer to various subjects, including people, places, and historical events. This article provides an overview of the different contexts in which the name Cortez is significant.

People

Hernán Cortés

Hernán Cortés (1485–1547) was a Spanish Conquistador who led an expedition that caused the fall of the Aztec Empire and brought large portions of what is now mainland Mexico under the rule of the Kingdom of Castile in the early 16th century. Cortés was part of the generation of Spanish colonizers who began the first phase of the Spanish colonization of the Americas.

Other Notable Individuals

• Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (born 1989) is an American politician and activist who serves as the U.S. Representative for New York's 14th congressional district.
• Ricardo Cortez (1900–1977) was an American film actor who began his career during the silent film era.

Places

Cortez, Colorado

Cortez, Colorado is a city located in Montezuma County, Colorado. It is a popular destination for tourists visiting the nearby Mesa Verde National Park, which is known for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings.

Cortez, Florida

Cortez, Florida is a census-designated place (CDP) in Manatee County, Florida. It is known for its historic fishing village and maritime heritage.

Historical Events

Spanish Conquest of the Aztec Empire

The Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire was a significant event in the history of the Americas. Led by Hernán Cortés, the conquest began in 1519 and culminated in 1521 with the fall of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. This event marked the beginning of Spanish dominance in the region and had profound effects on the indigenous populations.

Related Pages

• Spanish colonization of the Americas
• Aztec Empire
• Mesa Verde National Park
• New York's 14th congressional district
• Montezuma County, Colorado
• Manatee County, Florida