Hernan Cortes

Even as a child, Oscar Wilde dreamed of becoming famous. We dive deep into the life of the now notorious playwright, artist, and celebrated author. He is celebrated for his passionate writing, sharp wit, and taste for art. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.co ...  Show more

Born on July 18, 1918 in Mvezo, South Africa, Nelson Mandela grew up to be an influential activist and political leader. Despite being jailed for decades because he joined the fight against apartheid, Mandela became the first black president of South Africa and one of the most ce ...  Show more

As a child, La Malinche was sold into slavery by her own family. Through a series of curious circumstances, she began working as a translator and cultural interpreter for Hernán Cortés, and became one of the most famous (or infamous) characters in the story of Spain's conquest of ...  Show more

The explorer, Christopher Columbus, is famous for reaching the Americas and opening up a new world to European pioneers. But though his determination and skills were second to none, he eventually fell out of favour at home and abroad, and was unwelcome even in the very colonies h ...  Show more

Moctezuma II is largely considered to be the last true Aztec emperor. He died shortly after inviting the Spanish, led by Hernán Cortés, into the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán. Moctezuma was a priest and a great general before becoming a respected leader. But public opinion of hi ...

In episode three of our series exploring the great historical cities of Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas, travel writer Paul Bloomfield is joined by Dr Amy Fuller as they search for hints of the past within Mexico City. Together they explore the city's roots in the settlemen ...  Show more