Hernando Cortes, also known as Hernando CORTEZ or Hernando de Soto, was a Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that conquered the Aztec Empire in 1521. He is remembered for his bravery and ambition, and for his role in the colonization of the Americas. He is also remembered for his cruelty towards the native populations he encountered. He is often referred to as the 'Conquistador Hernando'.