Introduction
On this day, June 30th, our history commemorates an event known as “The Night of Sorrows” or “La Noche Triste.” This tragic night has been described as a demonstration of revenge, well-deserved humiliation, divine justice, or proof that instant karma exists, regardless of subject, location, or spiritual orientation.
Historical Context
In 1520, countless soldiers, with a latifundist gaze (as described by Carlos Monsiváis), loyal to the Spanish Crown, had been tirelessly trying to claim our territory for many moons. At the helm was Hernán Cortés.
Hernán Cortés: The Conquistador
Born in Medellín, Extremadura, around 1485, Cortés’s parents were Catalina Pizarro and Martín Cortés. According to José Antonio Vázquez Barbosa’s “Claroscuros de la historia nacional,” Cortés’s exact birthdate remains unknown, as he never disclosed it. He reportedly had a rapid political career and did not study at the renowned University of Salamanca, as is commonly believed; this institution has no records indicating that the future conquistador ever attended.
Ambitious, powerful, and responsible for subjugating numerous indigenous peoples, Cortés arrived in Tenochtitlán on November 8, 1519, as an esteemed guest and distinguished visitor. Initially, overcoming fear in the face of genuine human sacrifices and the indigenous people’s terror of metal-headed men wielding flaming spears was a significant accomplishment. However, once fears were quelled, the massacre and plunder continued as expected.
The Templo Mayor Massacre and Subsequent Rebellion
In May 1520, Cortés briefly left the territory. During his absence, a festival honoring Tóxcatl, the rebirth of the primary god Tezcatlipoca, took place. The ritual frightened the Spanish military, leading them to end the celebration with swords and spears. This event, known as the Matanza del Templo Mayor, ignited the indignation of the Tenochcas. The cruelty displayed by Peter de Alvarado’s men sparked a fierce rebellion, forcing the Spanish to seek refuge in their lodging palace.
Cortés’s Return and the Night of Sorrows
Upon his triumphant return after defeating Narváez on June 24, Cortés was caught off guard by the indigenous uprising. Desperate amidst the attack, he decided to release the young prince Cuitláhuac under the condition of ending the rebellion. Cuitláhuac joined his people, and Cortés attempted to calm them with Moctezuma’s assistance. However, this proved unsuccessful.
Moctezuma was either fatally wounded by a stone thrown by his own subjects, who now considered him a traitor, or he succumbed to severe injuries. The people’s fury translated into cries and lamentations, followed by a more violent uprising demanding war and combat to compensate for the irreparable destruction caused by the arrivals from across the sea.
The Retreat and the Night of Sorrows
Cortés, assuming the Aztecs would prioritize their emperor’s funeral over his army’s escape, mistakenly handed Moctezuma’s body to them. On June 30th, while the Aztecs mourned and appointed Cuitláhuac as their new leader, Cortés prepared to leave via the Calzada del Tepeyac. However, the Aztecs swiftly seized control of the bridge and road, causing panic and confusion.
A sudden downpour from Tláloc added to the chaos. Amidst the rain and bewilderment, the conquistadors found themselves defenseless, unable to use their firearms or navigate the muddy terrain without slipping. Many soldiers drowned, weighed down by their armor and the stolen silver and gold.
The escape to Tlacopan, west of the Great Tenochtitlan, failed. The conquistadors barely reached Popotla, and Cortés lost most of his army, trusted men, Tlaxcaltecan allies, supplies, horses, and weaponry.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Hernán Cortés? An ambitious and powerful conquistador born around 1485 in Medellín, Extremadura. He played a significant role in the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire.
- What led to “La Noche Triste”? Cortés’s misjudgment of the Aztecs’ priorities during his brief absence led to a failed escape, resulting in heavy losses for the Spanish forces.
- What was the significance of “La Noche Triste”? This event marked a turning point in the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire, demonstrating the resilience of indigenous resistance and the precariousness of Cortés’s position.
