Here's why:
* Spanish Military Superiority: The Spanish had advanced weaponry like muskets and cannons, which the Aztecs had never encountered before. This gave them a significant advantage in battle.
* Disease: The Spanish brought with them diseases like smallpox, to which the Aztec population had no immunity. This resulted in devastating epidemics that weakened the empire.
* Aztec Internal Conflicts: The Aztec Empire was not unified, and there were internal conflicts and rebellions that weakened the empire's ability to resist the Spanish.
It's important to note that the statement emphasizes the complexity of the situation. While Spanish military superiority and disease played a role, the Aztec Empire was not simply a passive victim. There were many factors that contributed to their eventual downfall.