Hernan Cortes (31 oct. 1485 – 30 janv. 1557)

Description:

Hernan Cortes conquered Mexico, and epitomized the religious zeal for exploration. Culturally, Spaniards had spiritual and secular matters intertwined, and conquistadors were inspired to conquer Mexico because of their need to spread Christianity.

Spaniards also had a cultural impetus to conquer, because they had a history of conquering in their country with the Reconquista. They wanted to be strong knights just like Spaniards historically.