Hernán Cortés led an expedition to Mexico in 1519 because he was sent by the Spanish government with the aim of exploring and claiming new territories for Spain. Additionally, he had heard of the vast wealth and resources of the Aztec Empire, and he saw the potential for gaining power and riches for himself. Cortés was also motivated by religious and cultural interests, as he was eager to spread Christianity and establish Spanish influence over the native peoples of the area.
