Question

europe and the new world
spanish conquistadors in the americas
following christopher columbuss momentous discovery, the spanish seized the opportunity to assert their dominance in the new world. this led to the dispatch of conquistadors, including hernando cortes and francisco pizarro, who played pivotal roles in reshaping the destiny of the recently uncovered lands.
hernando cortes and the aztecs (1519 - 1521)
hernando cortes, sent by the spanish in 1519, was driven by the pursuit of glory, gold, and the spread of christianity. his arrival in mexico marked a momentous encounter with the powerful aztec civilization.
illusion of deity initially, the aztecs, awed by cortess advanced weaponry and unfamiliar appearance, believed him to be a god. this perception led to the aztecs sharing their gold as tribute, fostering an illusory sense of cooperation.
shattered illusion as cortes sought control and amassed riches, the illusion of deity
in francisco pizarros conquest of the inca civilization, what ruthless tactic did he employ to secure gold and assert control?
holding the incan emperor hostage
offering trade agreements
establishing diplomatic relations

Explanation:

In Francisco Pizarro's conquest of the Inca civilization, holding the Incan emperor hostage was a common and ruthless tactic used by conquistadors to exert control and obtain resources like gold. Offering trade agreements and establishing diplomatic relations were not typical ruthless tactics in the context of conquest for resources and dominance during that era.

Answer:

holding the Incan emperor hostage