Here's why he was so important:
* Linguistic Bridge: Aguilar was a Spanish castaway who had lived among the Maya for eight years and learned their language. This made him an invaluable asset to Hernán Cortés, as he could communicate with the Maya people who were allied with the Spanish against the Aztecs.
* Cultural Knowledge: Aguilar's knowledge of Mayan customs and beliefs helped Cortés understand the Aztec culture and political landscape. He was also able to interpret Aztec religious practices, which proved vital in understanding their motivations and strategies.
* Key Translator: Aguilar worked alongside another interpreter, La Malinche (also known as Doña Marina), a Nahua woman who spoke both Nahuatl (the Aztec language) and Mayan. Together, they formed a crucial bridge between the Spanish and the Aztec people, enabling communication and negotiations.
It's important to note that Aguilar and La Malinche's roles are complex and have been debated by historians. While they facilitated Spanish conquest, they also played a significant role in the cultural exchange between the two worlds, helping to shape the future of Mexico.