Depicted in this painting is the siege of Tenochtitlán, as Cortés and his Spanish armies clash against Aztec leader Cuauhtémoc and the Mexica in May 1521. Leading his Spanish armies into the city, Cortes orders the complete destruction of Tenochtitlán, including its palaces, temples, and squares. With little food, high casualties, the destruction of the main temple, and the capture of Cuauhtémoc, the remaining survivors surrender three months later, marking both the end of the battle as well as the end of Aztec empire. (Library of Congress)
Library of Congress