Indigenous People

In this section are listed many Indigenous people that are mentioned in the texts of Gomara, Cortes, Diaz , Tezozomoc, Ixtlilxochitl, Diego Duran and others. The terms used below are the language used by the original writers (or their translators). It is also broken out by social groups, including Totonac, Maya groups, Mexicas, Tlaxcalans and others. Any help is appreciated.

References cited.

Cholulans

4 Commoner Messengers – 4 commoners were sent to Tlaxcala to converse with Cortés. No gifts, seemed an afront and they demanded to meet with nobles.

“Bishop” – One of two chiefs summoned by Cortés at Cholula before the massacre to inquire about why the suspicious behavior (Diaz p. 192).

    • This chief was excused from the Cholula Massacre but returned after to beg peace.

“Old Woman” – Came to La Malinche before the attack at Cholula asking her to seek safety. Marina reported this to Cortés. (Diaz p. 197) This woman spills the entire plan. Cortés has her brought to him, interrogated and held captive.

Tlalchiac – One of two lords in charge of Cholula (Leon p. 43).

Tlaquiach – One of two lords in charge of Cholula (Leon p. 43).

Cotaxtlans

Cuitlalpitoc (Flor)(Chon 495)(Annals 281), Pitalpitoque “Ovandillo” (Diaz p. 89) – Ambassador from Cuetlaxtlan, sent from Tenochtitlan.” Dependent, a subordinate leader”(Flor 56)

    • Described as Moctezuma’s slave of Teuctlamcazqui (Duran 495)
    • Took the Lord of Cuetlaxtlan (Tendile/Pinotl?) to the sea to look at the mountains floating (Leon 16). Climbed tree to see Spaniards (Duran 496).
    • Was given his freedom as result of speaking with Spanish (Duran 502)
    • Delivered gifts to Cortés at Ulua, fowl, maize cakes, cloth & gold (Diaz p. 89)(Quiahuitzlan 281)
    • He and Tendile rule “Cotustan, Tuxtepec, Guazpaltepeque, Tatalteco”
    • Also met the Grijalva expedition. (Duran 496)(Diaz p.
    • Florentine Codex says he’s a dependent, subordinate ruler (Flor 56).

“Francisco” – Local leader from “Rio de banderas”near San Juan Ulua. Was taken and baptized (Diaz).

Grand emissary of Cuetlaxtlan – Went with Moctezuma’s man Cuitlapitoc, to look at the Spanish fleet. Reported directly to Moctezuma. Pinotl or Tendille. Cuetlaxtecatl? (Lock 257).

Man from Mictlancuauhtla – Brought news to Moctezuma of “mountains on the sea” – Had no ears or toes. (Leon p. 16).

Cuetlaxtecatl Pinotl (Annals of Quahtitlan), Pinotzin (Flor), Pinotecuhtli, Pinotetl (Cronica) – Steward of Cuetlaxtlan (Flor 56, Leon 16), leader of Quetlaxtlan people (Annals of Quauhtitlan), governor of Cuetlaxtlan (Chron 496)

    • “Calpisqui of Cuetlextlan” (Flor 57)
    • Goes first to trade with Grijalva in 1518 (Flor 57).
    • Receives Chuitlalpitoc & Grand Emissary at Cuetlaxtlan (Leon 16)
    • Seems to have made an initial trip to see the Spanish before Cuitlalpitoc makes it down there(?)(Flor 56). Definitely went to see the Christians on the coast (Flor 58, Leon 17).
    • After meeting with Grijalva he returned to Tenochtitlan to report to Moctezuma (Flor 58).
    • Brought gifts to Moctezuma. (Annals of Quauhtitlan 281)

Teocinyocatl – Steward of Teocinyocan (Flor 56)

    • Went with Pinotl to the sea to look at Grijalva ships (Flor 56)

Yaotzin –  Steward of Mictlanquauhtla (Florentine 56)

    • Went with Pinotl to the sea to see Grijalva (Flor 56).

Maya – Cozumel

2 Old Men – Diaz reports they encountered two old men near an abandoned village (Diaz 28).

2 women with Chief’s Wife – Wife was with two other women (Gom 27)(Ixlil 140).

3 Children – Were with Wife of Chief, (Gom 27).

3 Men in a canoe – First Letter states they intercepted three men in a canoe headed for mainland. The men said the islanders had fled inland (Cortes 68).

10-12 People – First Letter says two captains went out and returned with 10-12 people (Cortes 68).

2,000 Islanders – Andres de Tapia describes the island as having 2000 residents. He does not specify any individuals (Tapia).

Captured Folks – Alvarado captured two men and a woman. They were given gifts by Cortés and sent back to find their villagers (Cit).

“Several Natives” – They came to check on the Chief’s Wife, on his behalf (Gom 27).

Chief, “Calachuni” (Gom 27), Lord of the Island (Cort 68)(Ixtlil 140) – Fled from the Spanish but his wife was found. Cortes urged him to return for the sake of his wife and people, which he did (Gom 27)

    • Was told of Jesus and Charles and all that, brought all the people back to town (Cort 68).

Jamaican Girl – Diaz says they met a Jamaican native. She told them she had been taken by current in a canoe with other men and ended up here. She came with them (Diaz 28).

Principal Man – Was among the 10-12 mentioned in the first letter. Was sent to retrieve the caciques of the island. (Cortes 68).

Wife of Lord – Discovered hiding with three children and four servants. Cortés dressed her and she coaxed out her husband the chief. (Gom 27, Ixlil 140)

Maya – Tabasco/Yucatan

12,000 Tabasco warriors on banks of Rio Grijalva, near Champoton. (Diaz p. 68)

5 Prisoners from Battle of Cintla (Diaz p. 76) – 2 were captains.

    • Sent to the chiefs of Tabasco.

Aquincuz – Chief of Xamanzana (Gom 32)

    • Held Jeronimo de Aguilar as laborer until his death “soon after” Aguilar came to him.

Julian – Captured at Cape Catoche by Cordoba (Diaz 20).

Lazaro – Chief of Campoche, the northernmost tip of Yucatan, mentioned in Cordoba expedition (Cort p. 63)

Moch Couoh – Champoto – Chief of Chompoton/Chakan putun

    • Named by members of the Cordoba expedition as chief of Potonchan. 
    • He beat the Cordoba men badly in an early morning ambush battle (Cort p. 63), 26 killed.
    • Brother to Tabscoob
    • Killed in 151 in battle with Grijalva expedition.

Melchior, Melchorejo (Diaz)(lacochcatl? Flor 91) – Maya Translator with Cortes.

    • Maya man captured at Cape Catoche during the Cordoba Expedition (Diaz 20).
    • He betrayed Cortés at Tabasco. 
    • Apparently went to Spain and was brought ‘back’ by Cordoba and acted as translator (Gom, p. 28).
    • Translated in Cozumel and helped discover there were Spaniards living in Yucatan.
    • Snuck away in Tabasco and encouraged the Maya attack (Diaz p. 74).
    • Caught by Maya and sacrificed for his bad advice after heavy loss at Cintla (Diaz 81).

Nanchancan – Chief of Chetemal

    • Held Gonzalo Guerrero as military chief (Gom 32).

Tabscoob – Chief of the Tabasco region, and Potonchan.

    • Met with Grijalva, June 8, 1518 – avoiding conflict with the captain; Wikipedia
    • Led Maya forces at Potonchan and Centla.
    • Brother of Chompoto, Chief of Chompoton (Diaz 80).
Chief Tabscoob Monument
Chief Tabscoob Monument in Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico.

Taxmar – Chief of Xamanzana, successor to Aquincuz.(Gom 32)

    • Held Jeronimo de Aguilar as laborer until Cortes arrived.

Mexica

Includes Tenochca, Tlatelolca and other “Aztec” people from the Valley of Mexico.

2 Sons of Nezahualiplli – Killed leaving Tenochtitlan on noche triste (Ixtlil 281)

3 Sisters of Cacama, 4 daughters of Nezahualpiltzintli (Ixtlil 281) – Killed with him by Spanish before departing on Noche Triste (Leon 91). Died while leaving as hostage (Ixtlil 281)

    • Dona Juana (Ixtlil 281) – Died on noche triste. Was baptized and pregnant when she died. Says Cortes loved her greatly and baptized her.

4 Mexica Dignitaries – Old men. – Met with Cortés, 2 nephews, after Totonac deal.

4 Mexican Dignitaries – Met with Cortés at Cholula and brought gifts, begging him to come to Tenochtitlan. (Diaz p. 186)

4 Mexican Dignitaries – Met Cortes at Eagle Pass (Diaz 211).

5 Tax-Collectors – Came to Quiahuitzlan while Cortes was there. He told them to stop taking sacrificial victims. Taken prisoner. (Diaz 112)(Gom 79)

4 Mexica Dignitaries – Old men. – Met with Cortes, 2 nephews, after Totonac deal (cit.).

5 Mexica Messengers – Sent to greet the Spanish with gifts (Leon 22). Moctezuma calls them “Jaguar Knights” and expects they will meet Quetzalcoatl.

    • Priest of the sanctuary Yohualichan
    • From Tepotzlan
    • From Tizatlan
    • From Huehuetlan
    • From Mictlan the Great

5 Mexica Chieftains Messengers – Sent by Moctezuma to Tlaxcala to congratulate them on victory and meet with Cortes and ask for friendship. Ask him to wait six days for their message to return. (Diaz 166).

6 Mexica Chieftains/Messengers – In Teocacingo during the Tlaxcala attacks, they are visited by Mexica messengers who offer tribute to leave. Diaz says they came after the battles and asked for peace and to be vassals but to not come to Tenochtitlan (Diaz p. 166)(Gom p. 108).

Six others returned with many gifts.

15-20 Spies at Chalco – Cortés stayed one night at a town on the water. He captured 15-20 spies and had them killed to prevent their messages.

40 Female Slaves – Presented to Cortés by Moctezuma’s brother at Amecameca (Cort, p. 103)

Brother to Moctezuma – Cuitlahuac? Meets with Cortés outside Chalco (Cort p. 103), he brought more gold and asked Cortés to go back. He said Moctezuma would do whatever he wanted if he did not enter the City.

Powerful Relative of Moctezuma – Cuitlahuac? (Diaz 264) – 

    • Reputation for great valor
    • Refused to attend meeting in Mexico and to pay tribute to Spain (Diaz 264)
    • Tula was one of his towns
    • Moctezuma tried to arrest him but he fled (Diaz 264)
    • He is finally brought in and still disobeyed Moctezuma to subject himself to Spain (Diaz 270)Cortes has him transferred to Spanish guard where he tries to persuade the chief to listen to Moctezuma (Diaz 270).

Daughter of Moctezuma (Tecuichpo?) – Given to Cortes (Cort p. 107)

Lord of Coyoacan – Met with Cacamatzin to attack Spanish. (Diaz 257)

    • Seems to have been co-conspirator with Cacama to overthrow Moctezuma and attack Spanish but he is found out and arreste (Diaz 263).

Lord of Culhuacan – Visited Cortes in Ixtapalapa with kinsman Cuitlahuac (Gom p. 137).

Lord of Tacuba – Part of resistance to Spanish (Diaz 257)

“Several Foot Jugglers” – Were brought to Spain (Gom 145)

Atlixcatzin – (Flor 118) Tenochca nobleman, the Tlacateccatl.

    • Present when Cortes met Moctezuma.

Axayacatl – Tlatoani of Tenochtitlan, predecessor to Moctezuma.

Cacama (Gom 136) – Cacamatzin (Diaz 213, Flor 118) – Cohuamacotzin (Leon 58?)- Cacamazin (Cort 112) – Coanacoch? (Duran 467) – Son of Nezayuilpilli, lord of Texcoco (Duran 467) became Lord of Texcoco after.

As he prepared to depart Chalco he was met by a group of nobles, one above all a young man. He asked Cortés to wait in Chalco and meet there. (Cort, p. 104). Diaz says he came to visit them in Ayotzingo (Diaz p. 213).

Persona: “Bellicose, spirited and fearless man,” (Ixtlil 273)

    • Nephew of Moctezuma and Lord of Texcoco, 25 years old (Gom p. 136)(Diaz 213)(Leon 61).
    • Met with Cortes near Chalco and asked him not to come to Mexico again. (Gom p. 136). 
    • Most richly dressed Indian Diaz had yet seen, much pomp and fancy feather dress (p. 213).
    • Escorted them to Mexico (Diaz p. 214)
    • Went ahead on the causeway to meet Moctezuma, and returned at his side.
    • Was present when Cortes and Moctezuma met (Flor 118)(Cort 105).
    • Was key in opposing Spanish during captivity of Moctezuma and organized resistance (Diaz 257)
    • Was bitterly offended by captivity of uncle Moctezuma. He scolded all the Mexica nobility for allowing it (Ixtlil 273)
    • Rebelled against Cortes after Moctezuma taken prisoner. Challenged them to come get him (Cort p. 112)
    • Was captured and brought by canoe to Tenochtitlan and held by Cortes (Cort p. 112). His brothers Ixtlilxochitl and Coanocochtzin betrayed him (Ixtlil 274).
    • Death: Is listed by Diaz as having been lost in Noche Triste (Diaz 302). Alva Ixtlilxochitl says he was murdered, along with his three sisters, by Spanish before they fled (Leon, 90).

Cepactzin – Mexica lord killed on Noche Triste (Ixtlil 280)

Chimalpopoca – Son of Moctezuma (Bernardino)

    • Sent to Texcoco (Tezcuco) with his brother as one of seven nobles to meet with Bernardino de Tapia and Pedro Alvarado, who had been taken by messengers (Bernardino).
    • Died in battle on Noche Triste (Flor 156)

Cihuacoatl –“Woman-Serpent” This is a title for one of the highest ranking advisers to the Tlatoani. One of Moctezuma’s leaders (Flor 63)(Chron 453).

    • Held by son of Tlacaelel (Duran 388), who nominated Moctezuma for Tlatoani.
    • Held by Tlacaelel.

Coacoatzin – Mexica lord killed on Noche Triste (Ixtlil 280)

Coanacochtzin – Tlatoani of Texcoco, after his brother Cacama (Ixtlil 273)

    • Betrayed Cacama with fake plot for Texcoco to liberate Mexico (Ixtlil 273)
    • Selected king of Texcoco after Cacama was killed (Ixtlil 286)

Cohuamacotzin (Leon 58?) – Prince of Texcoco, brother to Ixtlilxocotl and Tecocoltzin (Leon 58)

    • Baptized as Pedro, for Pedro de Alvarado his sponsor (Leon 60).

Cualpopoca – Coatlpopoca (Duran 517), Cualpupoca (De Tapia), Quetzalpopoca (Diaz) – Named as having killed 9 Spanish in Veracruz, which Cortes used as justification for arresting Moctezuma. (Gom 169)(Cort 108)(Chron 517).

    • Led Spanish on dangerous route to Tenochtitlan that was in fact planned for them to fall, two horsemen are killed and he is made a fugitive for this. Eventually he was caught and torn to pieces (Duran 517).
    • De Tapia says he killed 1 horse, 1 Spaniard and injured a bunch.
    • He is returned by force to Tenochtitlan by Moctezuma to answer for the death of the nine Spaniards.
    • Executed by burning in the plaza (Gom 177).

Son of Cualpopoca – He is brought to Tenochtitlan with his father and burned (Gom 177)(Cort 108)

Cuicuixcatzin, Cucuzcacin (Cort 112), Cuicuitzcatzin (Ixtlil 290) – Son of Cacamatzin (Cort 112), Son of Nezahualpilli (Ixtlil 290)

    • Cortes placed him in charge of Texcoco after kidnapping his father.
    • Also known as Tocpacxochitzin (Ixtlil 290)
    • Killed by his brother Coanacochtzin for delivering Cortes’s message (Ixtlil 290)
    • Later baptized as Don Carlos.

Cuitlahuac, Cuetravacin (Cort 140), Cuitcavaci (Thoan Cano) – 10th Tlatoani of Tenochca, Lord of Ixtapalapa, Brother of Moctezuma (Cort 105)(Gom p. 137)(Diaz 214). 

    • Met Cortes with Moctezuma. (Gom p. 139)(Cort 105)
    • Cortes says he is Moctezuma’s brother (p. 105)(Leon 61)(Cort 105)
    • In consort with Moctezuma he urges them not to admit Spanish to Tenochtitlan (Leon 61). But Cacama disagreed and he won out (Leon 61).
    • Seems to have been co-conspirator with Cacama to overthrow Moctezuma and attack Spanish but he is found out and arrested (Diaz 263).
    • Is named new Emperor during Battle of Tenochtitlan, Moctezuma finds out apparently on the terrace where he is wounded (Diaz 294).
    • Cortes says he learns later of his ascension after death of Moctezuma, and hears he is fortifying the city (Cort 140)
    • DEATH Nov 25, 1520, (Cort 139* Hugh Thomas note).

Cuatlazol – Young captain from Tolnahuac (Leon, Aubin 81)

    • Was leading dances in Tenochtitlan when attack happened (Leon 81)(Codex Aubin 277).
    • Wore a lip plug that day (Leon-Aubin 81).

Cuappiatzin, Quappiatzin (Flor 63) – Chief of the House of Arrows. Think this may be a title, not a proper name.

    • Summoned after Grijalva spotted in Ver Cruz (Flor 63)
    • Was present when Cortes and Moctezuma met (Leon 65).

Cuauhtemoc, Guatimuci (Thoan Cano), Quauhtemoctzin (Ixtlil) – 11th Tlatoani of the Mexica

    • About 18 when made Lord of Tlatelolco (Duran 538)
    • 18 when made Tlatoani, after death of Cuitlahuac (Ixtlil 286)
    • Was lord of Tlatelolco, nephew of Moctezuma, and was appointed Tlatoani before the death of Moctezuma, perhaps after the death of Itzuauhtzin (Duran 538).
    • Met with the newly appointed lords of Tacuba and Texcoco and decided to appeal tot he Spaniards native allies (Ixtlil 286)
    • Ordered a full attack on the Spanish at their “homes” – floors were covered with stones, arrows, and spears. Also took regional steps to reinforce his troops (Duran 539).

Persona: “very famous captain” (Ixtlil 286)

Don Carlos (Coanacoch) – (Diaz 263) Younger brother of Cacamatzin

    • Was installed as ruler of Texcoco (Diaz 263) after Cacamatzin was taken hostage. 

Dona Francisco – Aztec woman gifted to Bernal Diaz (Diaz 253)

    • Was one of Moctezuma’s mistresses.

Dona Isabel (See also Tecuichpo) – Daughter of Moctezuma

Ecatempatiltzin (Flor 63), Hecateupatiltzin – “Chief of the refugees from the south” (Leon p 22)

    • Summoned as counsel after Spanish seen along coast (Leon 22)(Flor 63)
    • Was present when Cortes met Moctezuma (Leon 65)

Huehuetecatl – Sent by Moctezuma to meet Cortes with Gifts (Flor 62)

Hueicamacatl – Sent by Moctezuma to meet Cortes with Gifts (Flor 62)

Huitnahuatlailotlac – Summoned by Moctezuma after Grijalva spotted in Vera Cruz (Flor 63).

Huitznahuatl – Title of person (Motelchiuh) summoned by Moctezuma to bring Cortes to Tenochtitlan (Chron 515).

Icpacxochitzin – Brother of Cacama (Ixtlil 272)

    • Was sent to replace his brother who was hanged by Cortes in assessing the treasury of Texcoco (Ixtlil 272).

Itzcauhtzin (Leon 65), Tlacochcalcatl Itzquauhtzin (Flor 118) – Lord of Tlatelolco “Tlacochcalcatl”

    • Present when Cortes met Moctezuma (Flor 118).
    • Addressed the Mexica mob during the siege of Tenochtitlan, on behalf of Moctezuma. They rejected his message and Spanish pulled him off the terrace (Flor 146).
    • He was killed with Moctezuma, his body put out by the Spanish and retrieved, then sent to Tlatelolco where he was burned with all the courtly ceremony (Flor 150).

Ixtlilxochitl – Don Hernando (Leon 56)(Ixtlil 272) – Prince of Texcoco, brother of Cacama (Chron 467)

    • Was the fourth son of Nezahulpilli to become king (Chron 468)
    • Met Cortes marching toward Chalco (Leon 57)
    • Was one of the most feared and respected in the kingdom (Ixtlil 273), seems to be an ally to Cortes.
    • Betrayed Cacama with fake plot for Texcoco to liberate Mexico and turned him over to Cortes (Ixtlil 273)
    • Went to Texcoco to oppose his brother Coanacochtzin for attacking Cortes (Ixtlil 291)
    • Was given a golden sword and shield by Cortes (Dur 553)
    • Led attacks during the Siege of Tenochtitlan (Dur 555).
    • Was baptized by Cortes as Don Hernando (Leon 59)

Moctezuma II – Ninth Tlatoani of Tenochtitlan and ruler of the Mexica Empire.

Motelchiuh – Holds title of Huitznahuatl and was sent to Cempoala to guide Cortes to Tenochtitlan (Chron 515)

Nephew of Moctezuma 1– Cacama? Met with Cortes after Totonac deal (Cit.).

Nephew of Moctezuma 2 – Ixtlilxichotl or Tecocoltzin? Met with Cortes after Totonac deal (cit.).

Nezahualpilli* – King of Tezcoco (Leon p. 15) – 1464-1515 Wiki

    • Oversaw the nomination and election of Moctezuma (Duran 386)
    • Offered a premonition of apocalypse to Moctezuma (Chronicles 452)

Nezahualquentzin – (Ixtlil 272 – Brother of Cacama)

    • Native of Tezcuco, asked to survey & remove Texcoco’s wealth by Cortes (Ixtlil 272)
    • Grandson of King Nezahualpilli of Texcoco
    • Hanged by Cortes for conspiring with Moctezuma (Ixtlil 272)

Oquiz – Nephew of Moctezuma, installed n Azcapotzalco (Duran 506).

Quappiatzin – Summoned by Moctezuma after Grijalva spotted in Vera Cruz (Flor 63).

    • Present when Cortes met Moctezuma (Flor 118)

Quaquachictin – Title or type of aide, with shaved heads (Flor 112).

Quetzalaztatzin – “The Ticocyahucatl” (Flor 118) – Keeper of the colors, keeper of the chalk (Leon 65) and body paints. One of the Mexica chiefs, a title, I think.

    • Summoned by Moctezuma after Grijalva spotted in Vera Cruz (Flor 63).
    • Was present when Cortes and Moctezuma met (Flor 118).

Quetzalacxoy – Son of Nezayuilpilli, lord of Texcoco (Chron 467)

    • Briefly King of Texcoco until his death (Chron 468)

Quilatzli – Wise old man from Xochimilco who showed Moctezuma ancient drawings that showed Spanish-like beings (Duran 505)

Quintalbor – Quintalour – also Teudilli (Gom) Mexican chief who meets Cortés in Vera Cruz (Diaz p. 92).

    • Looks like Cortés and was chosen for this reason (Diaz p. 91)
    • This is also Teudili (Gom 55)
    • Brought the big gifts package.

“Tapia” – A chief, and steward of Moctezuma – he kept an account of revenue in books. Diaz states he had a house full of these books (Diaz p 228)

Tecatzin – Chief of the Armory

    • Warned Moctezuma ahead of the festival to be ready, citing Cholula (Leon 81)

Tecocoltzin – (Leon 58) Brother to Cacama and Ixtlilxochitl, son of Nezahualpilli.

    • Survived Noche Triste (Ixtlil 282)
    • Named Lord of Texcoco by Cortes (Ixtlil 292)
    • Had whiter skin (Leon 58)
    • Baptized as Fernando, by Cortes

Tecuichpo – Daughter of Moctezuma

    • Baptized as Dona Isabel (Cit)
    • Wife of Cuauhtémoc, then Thoan Cano (Oviedo)
    • Married Cuauhtémoc, then Pedro Gallego, then Thoan Cano (Cano)

Tencuecuenotzin – Mexica lord killed on Noche Triste (Ixtlil 280)

Tepoztecatl – Sent by Moctezuma to meet Cortes (Flor 62)

    • Escorted treasure to Cortes (Flor 68)

Tepeoatzin (Leon 65), Tepehuatzin (Flor 118) – “The Tlacochcalcatl” (Lord of Tlatelolco?)

    • Summoned by Moctezuma after Grijalva spotted in Vera Cruz (Flor 63).
    • Was present when Cortes and Moctezuma met.

Tetlepanquetzaltzin (Leon 65), Tetlepanquetzatzin (Flor 118) – King of Tlacopan (Tacuba)

    • Was present when Moctezuma met Cortes (Flor 118)
    • Seems to have been co-conspirator with Cacama to overthrow Moctezuma and attack Spanish but he is found out and arreste (Diaz 263)
    • Was made Lord of Tacuba after Totoquihuatzin dies of smallpox (Ixtlil 286)

Tepeoatzin – (Leon 65) “The Tlacochcalcatl” (Lord of Tlatelolco?)

    • Summoned by Moctezuma after Grijalva spotted in Vera Cruz (Flor 63).
    • Was present when Cortes and Moctezuma met.

Tetlahuehuetzquititzin – Brother of Cacama (Ixtlil 272)

    • Native of Tezcuco, asked to survey & remove Texcoco’s wealth by Cortes (Ixtlil 272)
    • Grandson of King Nezahualpilli of Texcoco

Tetlepanquetzaltzin (Leon 65) – King of Tlacopan (Tacuba)

    • Seems to have been co-conspirator with Cacama to overthrow Moctezuma and attack Spanish but he is found out and arreste (Diaz 263).

Teudilli/Quintalour (Gom), Tendille, Teuhtlilli, Tentlil, Tlillancaqui (Teuctlamacazqui – Title)(Duran 495), Teotlili (Ixtilixochitl 247)

(Annals/Quauhtitlan 281)(Diaz 89)(Cort does not mention by name, Cort )(Flor 57 – Tentlil), Tentlil,a subordinate leader (Flor 56). Governor of that province, is also “Quintalour” (Gom 54) – (Possibly Cuetlaxtecatl ((Lock 257). Tlillancalqui Teuctlamacazqui (Duran 503)

    • Duran’s Histories provides the most info about Tlillancalqui. Adds entire consultation between visits of Grijalva and Cortes to narrative. Duran paints him as high advisor to Moctezuma, not of Cuetlastlan.
      • Ordered by Moctezuma to go to the sea, from Tenochtitlan, and investigate. Saw Grijalva’s men fishing and returned to Tenochtitlan (Duran 495).
      • Spent time calming Moctezuma after Grijalva left, and was sent to respond after Cortes landed (Duran 508).
      • Returns to coast again with initial gifts and food and departs for Tenochtitlan, after Grijalva departs, to meet with Cortes (Duran 498-503).
      • Is summoned by Moctezuma to create a painting of the Spaniards, in secret (Duran 503)
      • Serves as a confidant to Moctezuma as he panicked over arrival of Cortes (Duran 509)
      • Moctezuma sends him to the coast to bring gifts and food to care for the Spanish (Duran 510)
    • Is highest ranking official to meet Cortes on coast, “Governor of that province” (Gom 55)
    • Lives in Cotastla (Gom 56)
    • Negotiated with Cortes at San Juan Ulua
    • Diaz describes him as more inquiring than Cuitlalpitoc (Diaz 91). Paints him a bit as scoffing at the Spanish urgency.

Teuctlamacazqui –  Title, held by Tlillancalqui (Tentlil)(cit.)

Ticahua – Sent by Moctezuma to meet Cortes with Gifts (Flor 62)

Ticocyahuacatl – Title, Summoned by Moctezuma Cortes spotted in Vera Cruz (Flor 63).

    • Escorted treasure to Cortes (Flor 62-68)
    • Quetzalalatzin bore this title and was present when Cortes met Moctezuma.

Tlacaelel (Duran) – High Advisor

Served as Cihucalcatl to four Tlatoque. Brother to two Emperors, including Moctezuma 1. Was architect of Triple Alliance. He is said to have increased many of the traditional traits of Aztec militarism, sacrifice and Huitzilopochtli.

Tlacatecatl – Title for a war leader (Flor 112)

Tlacochcalcatl – “Translator brought from Spain by Cortes (Flor 91). Julian? This name appears many other places.

    • Acted as guide for the Spanish as they moved inland (Flor 91).
    • Disambiguation: Tlacochalcatl is also a Mexica title (Flor 118). This name appears many other places.
      • Tlacochcalcatl (Translator)
      • Acted as guide for the Spanish as they moved inland (Flor 91).
      • Flor states he was taken by one of the first ships and returned with Cortes (Flor 91).
      • Flor Nahuatl version says he’s from Cempoala (Flor 90).

      Tlacochcalcatl (Title)

      • One of the leaders assembled after Cortes is spotted (Flor 63).
      • Tlacochcalcatl Itzquahtzin, ruler of Tlatelolco, Was present when Cortes met with Moctezuma for the first time and walked to the palace with them.
      • Tepehuatzin, the Tlacochcalcatl, was present when Cortes met with Moctezuma for the first time and walked to the palace with them.

Tlaltecatzin – Tepanec prince who acted as guide to Spanish (Leon, 87). Wounded on Noche Triste fleeing city.

Tlamacazque – “Priest” (Gom 167).

Tlapalizquixochtzin – Moctezuma’s female consort (wife) and ruler of Ecatepec, Queen consort of Tenochtitlan.

Tlauitol – Son of Nezayuilpilli, lord of Texcoco (Duran 467)

    • Briefly King of Texcoco following his brother Quetzalocxoy’s short reign (Duran 468)

Tlilpotonque – Title of Serpent Woman (Leon p. 22). Male, I think.One of Moctezuma’s chiefs.

    • Summoned by Moctezuma after Grijalva spotted in Vera Cruz (Flor 63).

Tocpaxochiuh, Tocpacxochitzin (Ixtlil) – Son of Nezayuilpilli, lord of Texcoco (Chron 467)

    • Survived Noche Triste (Ixtlil 282)
    • Killed by his brother Coanacochtzin after he brought Cortes’s message to Texcoco (Ixtlil 291)

Topantemoc, Topantemoctzin (Flor 118) – Moctezuma’s treasurer in Tlatelolco (Leon 65)

    • Present when Moctezuma met Cortes (Flor 118).

Totomotzin – (Leon 65) possibly a title, not a person.

    • Was present when Cortes and Moctezuma met.

Totoquihuatztli – Tlatoani of Tacuba (Duran 391, Ixtlil 272)

    • Was present at the coronation of Moctezuma II (Duran 391)
    • Father-in-law to Moctezuma 2 (Ixtlil 275)
    • Present in Tenochtitlan when imprisoned Moctezuma an Cacama call for a meeting.
    • Died of Smallpox (Ixtlil 286).

Tzilacatzin – Warrior who tried to defend cities along lake from second Spanish invasion (Leon 104)

Tzinhuacpopocatzin (Leon)  – Met Cortes among the volcanoes (Leon 50) Maybe Cacamatzin? Presented much gold.

Tzoacpopocatzin – Mexica lord killed on Noche Triste (Ixtlil 280)

Tzocoztli – Saw the comet and reported it to Moctezuma (Chron 460)

Uanitl – Member of Moctezuma’s family installed as leader of Ecataepec (Duran 506)

Xiuhtototzin – grandee of the kingdom and lord of teotihuacan (Ixtlil 281).

    • Died leaving on Noche Triste (Ixtlil 281).
    • Capt General to Ixtlilxichotl and supported Cortes’s troops (Ixtlil 281).

Yacamapich – Son of Moctezuma made lord of Tenayuca (Chron 506)

Yacotzin – Mother to Princes of Texcoco

    • Rejected her son Ixtlilxochitl’s demands to be baptized at first (Leon 60)
    • Baptized as Dona Maria (Leon 60)
    • 4 daughters also converted.
    • Mother to Ixtlilxochitl (Leon 60)

Yohualli/Yohualichan – Title of Teohua, custodian of the god (Flor 62)

    • Highest ranked of the initial Cortes meeting (Flor 63)
    • Escorted treasure to Cortes (Flor 62-68)

Zihuatcatzin – Captain General at Otumba killed by Cortes (Ixtlil 283)

Tlaxcalans

4 Lords of Tlaxcala – Tlaxcala is a confederation of four independent cities, each with its own leader and military.

The four lords of the four towns of Tlaxcala in 1519:

    • Tizatlan – Xicotencatl the Elder
    • Tepeticpac – Tlahuexolotzin
    • Ocotelulco – Maxixcatzin
    • Quiahuitzlan – Citlalpopocatzin

4 Women  – Presented by the Spies to be sacrificed and eaten (Diaz p. 162).

4 Men Sent to Negotiate – They brought food and said they wanted peace and that Xicotencatl would be there in two days. (Diaz p. 164). They blamed the attacks on Otomis.

5 Chief’s Daughters  – Presented by Xicotencatl the Elder and Mae Escasi to Cortés and his men.

    • Dona Luisa – Xicotencatl’s daughter. Given to Pedro de Alvarado (Diaz).
    • Dona Elvira – Mase Escasi’s daughter or niece. Given to Juan Velasquez de Leon (Diaz).
    • Girl 3 – Given to Gonzalo de Sandoval (Diaz).
    • Girl 4 – Given to Cristobal de Olid (Diaz).
    • Girl 5 – Given to Alonso de Avila (Diaz).
    • Ixtlilxochitl lists names, plus says many other young women: (Ixtlil 262)
    • Xicontecatl’s two daughters:
      • Tecuiloatzin
      • Tolquetquetzaltzin
    • Maxixcatzin’s Daughter
      • Cicuetzin (daugher of Atlalpatzin)
    • Lord of Quiahuitzlan’s daughter
      • Caquancozcatl, (daughter of Axoquentzin)
    • Huitznahuatzaltzin’s daughter
      • Tequanitzin

5 Tlaxcalan Slaves – Presented after a second day of battles.

50 Tlaxcalan Spies – Gomara reports they kept bringing food, but wandered about. Teuch told Cortes they were spies. They confessed armies were hiding nearby and Cortes had all 50 of their hands cut off.

400 Prisoners – Cortés reports taking 400 captives after attack by Tlaxcala/Otomies during raids.

1000 Tlaxcalan Warriors – Chiiefs of Tlaxcala offered 10,000 to escort Cortés to Cholula, but he declined and took just 1,000 (Diaz p. 188). Diaz offers same numbers from Tlaxclans for march from Cholula to Mexico (Diaz p. 207).

Tlaxcalan Allied Warriors – (1,000 up to 5000)

Diaz – Chiefs of Tlaxcala offered 10,000 to escort Cortés to Cholula, but he declined and took just 1,000 (Diaz p. 188). Diaz offers same numbers from Tlaxclans for march from Cholula to Mexico (Diaz p. 207).

Cortés says he left Tlaxcala for Cholula with 4 to 5,000 Tlaxcala warriors (Cort p. 98).

Duran states “a number of soldiers.”

First Skirmishers – 15 warriors at first, then 4000-5000 approached. They killed two horses (Cort p. 92). These are possibly Otomi Indians.

“Indian of Tlascaltecal” (Cortes 132) – Guide who led the Spanish to Tlaxcala after Noche Triste.

Acxoxecatl, Acxotecatl (Ixtlil 282) – Tlaxcala Captain who marched to Tenochtitlan with Cortés (Leon, p. 43).

    • Survived Noche triste (Ixtlil 282)

Axayacatzin – Tlaxcala captain that marched with Cortes (Ixtlil 263), later returned to Tlaxcala.

Cahuecahua – Tlaxcala Captain who marched to Tenochtitlan with Cortés (Leon, p. 43).

Chichimecatecle – Don Lorenzo de Vargas – Tlaxcalan chief (Diaz p. 149).

    • Son was a captain in Tlaxcala army who accused Xicotenga of poor fighting and abandoned him v Spanish (Diaz 149).

*Citlalpopocatzin, don Baltasar (Ixtlil 263), Citlalquiahuitzlan (Ixtlil 283) –  Lord of Quiahuitzlan

    • Came out to Hueyotlipan to greet Cortes after fleeing Tenochtitlan.

Cocomitecuhtli – Tlaxcala Captain who marched to Tenochtitlan with Cortés (Leon, p. 43).

Dona Luisa – Xicotenga’s daughter married to Pedro de Alvarado (Diaz 178)

Dona Elvira – Daughter of Maxixca, married to Juan Velazquez de Leon, possibly (Diaz 178)

    • Apparently killed in Noche Triste with husband Juan de Leon (Diaz 307).

Icueten – Noble sent on behalf of Xicotencatl to Cempoala to get gifts (Ixtlil 263)

*Maxixca, Maxixcatzin, Magiscatzin, Mase Escasi (Diaz), Don Juan (Ixtlil 263)  – Chief of Ocotelulco. Governor of the Republic of Tlaxcala (Cortés 96). Second in command of Tlaxcala army (150,000 strong says Gomara).

    • Urged Cortes not to enter the Mexican city (Diaz p. 206)
    • Met Cortes when he entered Tlaxcala (Diaz 173)
    • Resided in Ocotelulco (Gom p. 119)
    • Cortes calls hm the “greatest lord” of the Tlaxcala (Cort 96)
    • Came to Hueyotlipan to meet Cortes after fleeing Tenochtitlan, Cortes gave him the Mexica banner (Ixtlil 284)
    • Was always by Cortes side
    • Died of SMallpox (Ixtlil 289)

Matzin – Tlaxcala captain that marched with Cortes (Ixtlil 263)

Miztli – Tlaxcala captain that marched with Cortes (Ixtlil 263)

Patlahuatzin – Ambassador to Cholula who brought a message of peace, but of warning of Cortés’ strength (Leon p. 46). He was mutilated and sent back to Tlaxcala.

Piltecuhtli – Tlaxcala Captain who marched to Tenochtitlan with Cortés (Leon, p. 43).

Quauhtotohua – Tlaxcala Captain who marched to Tenochtitlan with Cortés (Leon, p. 43).

Quanaltecatl – Tlaxcala captain that marched with Cortes (Ixtlil 263)

Quetzalpopocatzin – Maxixca’s brother (Ixtlil 282). Survived Noche Triste.

Tecpanecatl – Tlaxcala Captain who marched to Tenochtitlan with Cortés (Leon, p. 43).

Tenamazcuicuiltzin – Tlaxcala captain that marched with Cortes (Ixtlil 263)

Textlipitl – Tlaxcala Captain who marched to Tenochtitlan with Cortés (Leon, p. 43).

Tianquiztlatoatzin – General that led attack on Tecoyoac with Cortes (Ixtlil 288)

Tlacatecuhtli – Tlaxcala captain that marched with Cortes (Ixtlil 263)

*Tlehuexolotzin, don Gonzalo (Ixtlil 263) – Lord of Tepeticpac, Tlaxcala (Ixtlil 263)

Tlepapalotzin – Tlaxcala captain (Ixtlil 263)

Tocpacxochiuh – Lord of Tecoac (Otomi?)(Duran 518). 

    • Was ordered to greet the Spanish near Tecoac but instead took offense to orders and attacked (Duran 518).
    • Was taken captive by Cortes (Duran 522)

Totatzin Chichatlapaltzin – Noble sent on behalf of Maxixcatzin to Cempoala to get gifts (Ixtlil 263)

Xicotencatl the Younger (Gom p. 102) Xicontenga (Diaz) Sintengal (Cortés) – Tlaxcala’s younger, he commands the military forces as a general. One leader of everything, one the field general.

Physical Description: Described as tall, broad-shouldered, 35 years old with a long pock marked face, dignified. (Diaz p. 168)

    • From Quiahuitzlan (Gom p. 102)
    • Army was turned back at 2nd Major Battle.
    • Upon hearing of his elders desire for peace, he became enraged (Diaz p. 154)
    • Came to meet with Cortés after several battles (Gom p. 115)(Diaz 167). Says he cried as he explained Tlaxcala had never been vassal to any king. Pledged allegiance.
    • Diaz incorrectly states his father is Mase Escasi, not Xicotencatl Elder.
    • Tried to seize power while leaders were fighting in Tenochtitlan (Unverified)
    • Went with Tlaxcala troops to Texcoco, then on to Tlacopan in support of Cortes (Ixtlil 308). 
    • Hanged by Cortes in Tlacopan for offenses, calls him Axayacatl here, possibly Elder? (Ixtlil 308).

*Xicotencatl the Elder (Gom) Xicontenga (Diaz 153) Sintengal (Cortés), don Bartolome (Ixtlil 263) – Ruler of Tizatlan, Tlaxcala

    • Old and blind, felt all over Cortes’s face and beard (Diaz 176). During their initial time in Tlaxcala he was asked about Mexico and was able to answer more than other elders.
    • Moctezuma’s messengers arrived to find Elder in consult with Mase Escasi (Diaz 153).
    • Visits Cortés at his camp. Apologized and begged allegiance.

Yaotzin – Noble sent on behalf of Tlehuexolotzin to Cempoala to get gifts (Ixtlil 263)

    • A person by this name is also ruler of Quauhnahuac and flees Cortes, but then surrenders to him (Ixtlil 302).

Totonacs (Cempoalans, Quiahuitzlan)

2 Cempoalan Chiefs – Sent from Xalacingo to Tlaxcala with a message. (Diaz, p. 140).

4 Cempoalan Messengers – Sent by Cortes to Tlaxcala (Gom, p. 96).

8 Cempoalan Priests – Described as wearing black robes with long hair clotted with blood and smelling of decay.

8 Totonac women – Given to Cortes and his men by local chiefs. Were later baptized at first mass in Cempoala.

    • Dona Francisca, daughter of Cuesco. Given to Puertocarrero (Diaz)
    • Dona Catalina – Niece of the Fat Cacique, Cortes’ wife.

12 Indians – 12 people sent by Cempoalans cooked for Cortes at their camp the night before the got to Cempoala (Diaz 106).

15 Quiahuitzlan – Met Cortes in square at Quia (cit.).

20 Cempoala Dignitaries – Came to meet Cortes on road to Cempoala (cit.).

20 Cempoala People – Gomara reports they took them hostage outside of Cempoala (cit.).

20 Scouts (5 scouts Diaz)  – Cortes meets them at Ulua, first contact with the Cempoalans. (Gom 63)

50 Cempoalan Warrirors – For trip to Mexico.

200 Cempoala Porters – For march to Mexico (Diaz). Gomara reports 1000, later 400 in Tlaxcala.

400 Cempoala Porters – For trip from Cempoala to Quiahuitzlan (Diaz).

Cuesco – Totonac Cacique who gave a daughter to Spanish (Diaz 121).

Mamexi – Given to Cortés in Cempoala as he departed for Mexico (Gom 93).

    • In Ixtacamaxtitlan, he urged Cortes to go through Tlaxcala, not Moctezuma’s territories (Gom p. 98). Said it was a deceit to separate the Spanish from their current allies.

Tamalli – Given to Cortés in Cempoala as he departed for Mexico (Gom 93).

Teuch, Teuche (Tapia) – Given to Cortés in Cempoala as he departed for Mexico (Gom 93).

    • Warns Cortes that Tlaxcala spies in camp have to go, which Cortes heeds (Gom 106)
    • Is a captain of a Totonac unit (de Tapia)
    • Warns Cortes there are 100K men who will fight him in Mexico, but he will die by his side if he goes (de Tapia).

Tlacochcalcatl – From Cempoala was “first to greet them in our land” (Flor). Was taken by Cordoba and came back with Cortes as translator (Flor 91). Diaz mentions two men, James and Melchior. Florentine seems to place him as Malintzin’s partner, which was actually Alvarez. Perhaps his story was co-mingled?

Xicomecoatl “Fat Cacique”, Chicomacatl (Ixtlil 263) – Cacique of Cempoala, so fat, according to Diaz (Diaz 108).

Others

2 Slave Girls – Given to Cortés in Xalacingo with gold neckalces and cloth (Diaz, p. 140).

3 Indian Chieftains – Captured in major battle against Tlaxcala (Diaz p. 150). Sent them to Tlaxcala to beg for passing.

4 Slave Girls – Given to Cortés in Ixtacamaxtitlan by the chief (Gom p. 96). Diaz says in Zautla (p. 138). Cortés said 7 or 8 girls in Zautla (p. 91)

8 women of Chalco – Diaz claims leaders from the towns of Chalco had given them gold and 8 women.

20 Xocotlan Warriors – Cortés asked Olintecle for 20 warrirors and granted (Diaz p.138).

20 Xalacingo Warriors – Cortés asked for and received 20 warriors, (Diaz, p. 141)

300 Ixtacamaxtitlan Soldiers – Provided to Cortés (Gom p. 98). Diaz reports Olintecle gave 20 warriors. Cortés reports 300 (Cotr p. 93).

15 Quiahuittzlan Dignitaries – Met Cortés in main square to greet him. 12, according to Gomara.

18 Xico Dignitaries – Came to meet Cortés into Xico, not wanting the Cempoalans to enter. The Mexica army had left days before they claimed.

Aquincuz – Chief of Xamanzana

Chinantecs – A group of people from Oaxaca found during mining mission (Diaz 268)

Cinacatzin – Teotihuacan warrior who fought with Mexica, took down a horse (Ixtlil 282)

Coatelicamat – Ruler of mining province where Cortes sent 2 Spaniards to learn about their gold. He didn’t allow Mexicans in, but welcomed Spanish and was eager to ally with Cortes (Cort p. 109).

Drunk Man from Chalco – Mexica soothsayers come across this man who speaks a vulgar truth to them, that Moctezuma has already lost the empire, that his decisions are done. They can’t appease him, his truth is too strong. He disappears and they decide it is the god Tezcatlipoca.

Juan Jaramillo – Married Malintzin after the conquest (Diaz 86).

Lazaro – Half-brother of Malintzin (Diaz 85).

Lord of Ixtacamaxtitlan “Ixtacamaxtitlan” (Gom p. 97) – Met cortes in “Caltanmi” (Cort 91). Gave two slave girls to Cortés. Escorted Cortes to the wall/border of Tlaxcala.

Malintzin, Marina (Ixtlil 245) – Dona Marina (Flor), La Malinche, translator for Cortés.

Physical Description: Diaz says she was attractive, her royal lineage “evident in her appearance” and “good looking, intelligent.” (Diaz 82).

    • Mom and Dad were lords of “Paynala,” or Olutla, or Huilotlan (Ixtlil 245), her mother ruled with her son, and she was baptize as Marina, her son as Lazaro, her mother as Marta – (Diaz 85)
    • Grandaughter of the lord of her province, Huilotlan, Xalatzinco (Ixtlil 245)
    • Place of Origin: From “Viluta” or Olutla to wealthy parents, but stolen and sold in Xicalango market as a slave (Gom 55). She is said to live in Tepeticpac/Teticpac “on the coast” (Flor 87).
    • Given to Cortes after the victory at Cintla by Maya chiefs (Diaz 82)(Gom 48)
    • Baptized at altar by Fray Bartolome Olmedo at Santa Mra de la Victoria, March 16ish 1519)(Diaz 82)
    • Cortes gave her to Alonso Puertocarrero (Diaz 82)
    • Is tipped off in Cholula by a local woman that the Mexica army is near, urges her to flee like other women (Cort 99).
    • Is sent to ask Moctezuma for a tour of Tlatelolco on day 4 in Mexico (Diaz 131)
    • Went to seize Moctezuma in his quarters (Diaz 245)
    • Urges the Mexica to come out and feed the Spanish after they have seized Moctezuma (Leon 68)

Marta – Malintzin’s mother, her Christian name (Diaz 85).

Nachancan* – Chief of Chetemal

Olientetl* (Gom p. 95) Olintecle (Diaz) – Chief of Zautla.

    • Came out to meet Cortes as he entered Xocotlan (Diaz 135)
    • 20,000 vassals, 30 wives, 100 female attendants, 2,000 “retainers” (Gom p. 96)
    • Lord 2, came with chief of Ixtacamaxtitlan.

Qualpopoca*/Coatlpopoca (Druan 518) – Chief of Nautla. Killed two Spanish and was attacked by Vera Cruz soldiers. (Cort p. 107)

    • Brought to Cortes in Tenochtitlan with 15 others (Cort p. 108). They said initially Moctezuma did not order the murder but upon being burned publicly they shouted he did. Cortes used this to publicly arrest Moctezuma.
    • Duran says he led them on a fake route then attacked them, killing two horses.

Tangajuan – King of Michoacan (Ixtlil 294)

    • Sided with Mexica in final battle of Tenochtitlan (Ixtlil 294).
    • His sister (Unnamed) starved herself upon belief that the Spaniards would come to cruelly run their land. She returned from the dead with a warning for her brother (Ixtlil 294)

Taxmar* – Chief of Xamanzana, successor to Aquincuz

Tlacateuctli Otoncoatl – title and name of the lord of Teocalhueyacan who gave harbor to Cortes (Flor 158)

Tlaltecatzin – A Tepaneca lord. Was leading Spanish out of Tenochtitlan, killed on Noche Triste (Flor 156)

Topacxochiuh – Lord of Tecoac, see Tlaxcalans

Tuchintecla* Tochel – Chief of Coatzalcoalco (Cort p. 110)(Diaz 267)

 *King, queen, chief or ruler.