In present-day Mexico, physical evidence of the once-powerful Aztec Empire can be difficult to see. How did such a powerful society and culture virtually disappear? The answer dates back to the arrival of the Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes, on a determined quest to claim land and riches for Spain, and spread Christianity. Overcome by the weapons and tactics of the Spanish and their native allies, the great Aztec Empire and its ruler, Moctezuma II, fell. In this program, students learn about the causes of the Aztec Empire's fall, explore the culture clash that ensued when two very different societies merged and witness the crumbling of the Aztec culture -- from the destruction of its prized architecture to the decline of its population due to enslavement and disease. While Christianity and the Spanish language prevail in Mexico today, traditions and tales of the lost Aztec Empire live on through its remaining Aztec descendants. .