Conclusions

The perspective explored here reveals that superior technological and combat methods, resource and support chains, implementation of indigenous knowledge, and effective counter-innovations were directly conducive towards the Spanish advantage during the conquest. So much so that the Spanish were successful in neutralizing Tenochtitlan’s impressive array of hydrological adaptations. The construction of the brigantines serves as a prime example of a counter-innovation that combined superior technology with weaponization of indigenous knowledge to overcome specific Mexica engineering and geographical challenges. It is established here that these hydrological developments nonetheless did afford the Mexica a considerable defensive edge over their adversaries, as can be seen in Cortés’ devastating losses during La Noche Triste. The Spanish operation, however, was unlike anything the Mexica had encountered before—for a number of reasons—and ultimately exploited the weaknesses of the aforementioned aquatic adaptations, converting what was once the backbone of the great city into the very factor that would facilitate its demise.