Can the vandalism of ‘Conquistador’ Hernàn Cortés’ memorial be justified?

This enquiry takes as its focus the recent vandalism of a Hernàn Cortés statue in Spain.

Students are invited to consider whether the vandalism – carried out by those sympathetic to Mexico’s conquest at the hands of the Spanish – was justified; was Cortés a cruel and oppressive coloniser? Or does this do a disservice to his memory?

Considering a range of evidence from the explorations and activities of Cortés, students consider whether Cortés’ actions – and the responses to them – changed over time. This helps them to develop an understanding of that important historical concept of change and continuity.

Finally, students write a commemorative plaque for Cortés, showing off their new knowledge by including a balanced sense of Cortés’ achievement and failings.