Question

question 5 1 pts which of the following was the determinative factor in the spaniards’ conquest of the aztecs? the aztecs thought that cortés was a god and were afraid to fight him. european diseases spread rapidly among the aztec warriors and elites. the spanish overwhelmed the aztecs by force of numbers. the aztecs were hated by their neighbors, who joined forces with the spanish.

Explanation:

To determine the determinative factor in the Spaniards’ conquest of the Aztecs, we analyze each option:

• The idea that Aztecs thought Cortés was a god is a myth and not the main factor.
• European diseases (like smallpox) spread rapidly among the Aztecs, decimating their population, including warriors and elites. This significantly weakened their ability to resist, making it a key determinative factor.
• The Spanish were not overwhelming in numbers; the Aztecs had far more people initially.
• While some neighbors joined the Spanish, the spread of diseases had a more profound and direct impact on the Aztec society's ability to fight.

Answer:

B. European diseases spread rapidly among the Aztec warriors and elites.