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WJEC GCSE The Spanish Conquest of the Aztecs c.1492–c.1525: a case study in early modern colonialism
On-screen non-examination assessment: 3 hours 20% of qualification 80 marks
Unit 2: An in-depth study on European and/or World history
The purpose of this unit is to provide an understanding of an issue in European and/or world history in depth via the study of historical sources and interpretations.
Centres can choose one of the three periods of study: medieval, early modern or modern, not repeating a period of study studied in Unit 1 or 3. Centres will choose one of two options within the period.
Learners will study one of six historical topics to undertake an in-depth study that will provide them with an understanding of an issue in European and/or world history. They will then undertake a historical enquiry based on their selected historical topic.
Learners should be able demonstrate skills of analysis and evaluation when engaging with sources that relate to the selected historical topic and historical interpretations that encompass contrasting views of events and people.
Learners should also be able to apply their knowledge and understanding of the following historical concepts in the context of their chosen historical topic:
- continuity and change
- similarity and difference
- significance and impact
- cause and consequence.
Early Modern
The Spanish Conquest of the Aztecs c.1492–c.1525: a case study in early modern colonialism
In this topic learners will gain knowledge and understanding in the following areas:
2.3.1 The Spanish expansion into the “New World”
2.3.2 Aztec civilisation
2.3.3 Hernán Cortés
2.3.4 The defeat of the Aztecs
2.3.5 The effects of the Spanish conquest.
Content and Amplification
Background: the emergence of exploration from the Iberian Peninsula
Learners should be aware of:
- the power of Spain and Portugal, and their searches for new routes to Asia
- the role of Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon in supporting the voyages of discovery, and attitudes toward Indigenous Peoples and the Treaty of Tordesillas, 1494
2.3.1 The Spanish expansion into the “New World”
- Reasons for Spanish expansion overseas, including:
- political, economic and religious changes
- technical advances in seafaring and map-making
- The Spanish conquest of the Caribbean, including:
- the peoples of the Caribbean – exploitation of the people and the land
- reasons for Spanish expansion into Mexico.
2.3.2 Aztec civilisation
- The main features of Aztec civilisation, including:
- methods of rule, beliefs, tributes, codices and sacrifice
- wealth, agriculture, trade and warfare
- The significance of Tenochtitlan, including:
- districts of the city
- the sacred precinct.
2.3.3 Hernán Cortés
- The role of Cortés in the conquest of the Aztecs, including:
- his relations with Velazquez
- his expedition to Mexico
- His relationship with Indigenous Peoples, including:
- the role of Malinche
- alliances and disputes with Indigenous Peoples.
2.3.4 The defeat of the Aztecs
- The ransom of Moctezuma II, including:
- the expulsion of the Spanish
- the Siege of Tenochtitlan
- The defeat of the Aztecs, including:
- the fall of Tenochtitlan
- the establishment of Mexico City.
2.3.5 The effects of the Spanish conquest
- The social and cultural impact of the conquest on the Aztecs, including:
- the treatment of Indigenous Peoples and the impact of disease
- cultural changes and the imposition of Christianity
- The economic and political impact of the conquest, including:
- the impact on the Aztecs, such as the encomienda system and royal authority
- the impact on Europe, including increased trade, wealth and the consequences of inflation.
References for The Spanish Conquest of the Aztecs c.1492–c.1525: a case study in early modern colonialism
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