The ninth ruler of the Aztec empire, Montezuma II (1466-1520) was seized by the Spanish conquistadores, who used him to control and rule the empire.

Montezuma was born in Tenochtitlán, capital of the Aztec empire, and the present site of Mexico City. He received a thorough education in religion, science, and art and was especially devoted to his religion, becoming a priest in the temple of the war god Huitzilopochtli. He also distinguished himself in the numerous Aztec wars.

In 1502 Montezuma succeeded his uncle Ahuitzotl to the throne and became known for his pride and superstition. He lacked the harsh realism of his predecessors and was very much influenced by omens and prophecies. He dismissed all plebeians from his court and increased taxation of the merchants. Although his advisers warned him that his measures would weaken the empire, he requested heavier tribute from conquered tribes and...