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The Siege of Tenochtitlan: Cortés's Water War
Description
In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the final, brutal siege of Tenochtitlan in 1521, focusing on the unique naval and tactical aspects that decided the fate of the Aztec capital. They discuss Hernán Cortés's desperate decision to build thirteen brigantines in Tlaxcala, the ingenious use of freshwater and fire ships, and the role of indigenous allies like the Tlaxcalans in blockading the city. The conversation also delves into the strategic importance of the causeways and the aqueduct at Chapultepec, the leadership of Cuauhtémoc, and the devastating impact of smallpox and starvation. Lucas highlights lesser-known figures such as the Spanish captain García Holguín and the Aztec resistance leader Cuitláhuac, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in world history.