Tlaxcalans

Definition

The Tlaxcalans were a prominent indigenous group in Mesoamerica, known for their fierce independence and resistance against the Aztec Empire. They played a crucial role as allies to Hernán Cortés during the Spanish conquest of Mexico, leveraging their longstanding rivalry with the Aztecs to aid in the eventual downfall of the empire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Tlaxcalans were located in present-day Tlaxcala, Mexico, and were considered one of the most powerful city-states prior to the Spanish arrival.
2. Their alliance with Hernán Cortés was pivotal; they provided him with thousands of warriors, which significantly bolstered the Spanish forces against the Aztecs.
3. Despite initially aiding the Spanish, many Tlaxcalans later faced harsh treatment under Spanish rule and became subjects of the encomienda system.
4. The Tlaxcalans' animosity toward the Aztecs stemmed from years of conflict and tribute demands imposed by them, making their collaboration with Cortés more strategic.
5. After the fall of Tenochtitlán, Tlaxcalans were granted special privileges by the Spanish crown, including autonomy and recognition of their land rights.

Review Questions

• How did the Tlaxcalans' history with the Aztec Empire influence their decision to ally with Hernán Cortés?
  • The Tlaxcalans had a long-standing enmity with the Aztec Empire, which had oppressed them through military conquests and heavy tribute demands. Their desire for revenge against the Aztecs and a chance to reclaim their independence motivated them to ally with Hernán Cortés. This strategic alliance allowed them to use their military strength effectively against a common enemy, ultimately leading to significant changes in power dynamics in Mesoamerica.
• Evaluate the consequences of the Tlaxcalans' alliance with Hernán Cortés during the conquest of Mexico.
  • The alliance between the Tlaxcalans and Hernán Cortés had immediate military advantages, enabling significant victories over the Aztecs due to combined forces. However, this partnership had long-term repercussions for the Tlaxcalans as they transitioned from allies to subjects under Spanish rule. While they initially gained benefits such as land rights and autonomy, they also faced exploitation under the encomienda system, which disrupted their society and economy.
• Assess the broader implications of the Tlaxcalan alliance for indigenous resistance movements following the conquest of Mexico.
  • The Tlaxcalan alliance with Cortés demonstrated a complex interplay between indigenous groups and European powers during colonial times. While it initially served as a model for indigenous resistance against common oppressors, it also highlighted divisions among native groups that could be exploited by outsiders. The consequences of this alliance reverberated through subsequent resistance movements as various indigenous communities grappled with betrayal and loss of autonomy while seeking to reclaim their heritage and land from Spanish colonization.

Related terms

Hernán Cortés: A Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that caused the fall of the Aztec Empire, using alliances with various indigenous groups, including the Tlaxcalans.

Chichimecas: A collective term for various indigenous tribes in northern Mexico, often in conflict with the Aztecs, similar to how the Tlaxcalans opposed them.

Mesoamerica: A historical region that encompasses central and southern Mexico and parts of Central America, known for its rich indigenous cultures before European contact.