Betrayed Tlaxcalan Allies of Cortés

Did you know that one of history's greatest military allies was executed as a traitor by

the very people he helped conquer an empire? In 1519, Xicotencatl the

Elder commanded 100,000 Tlaxcalan warriors against a small Spanish force led by Cortés.

At first, they crushed the invaders. The Tlaxcalans were fierce,

organised, and knew their land. But then Xicotencatl made a calculated decision.

He would ally with these strangers to destroy his real enemies, the Aztecs.

His military genius helped Cortés tear down Tenochtitlán, the mighty Aztec capital.

The Spanish promised partnership and respect for Tlaxcalan independence. They lied.