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Interesting map of the Mexican State of Tabasco, tracking the route of Hernando Cortés in 1524 and 1525.

This is one of 3 maps published to accompany the Hakluyt Society's The Conquest of New Spain, published in 1916.

The map reconstructions the route Cortés' expedition thorugh places referenced in Cortes' Fifth Letter. The place names - Tizatepelt, Ciquatecapan, Tatahuitalpan, Ystapa, Tepetitan, Chilapa, Zaguatan, Chontalpa, and Copilco are all ancient placenames, with spelling offered here directly from the map.

Hernando Cortés' Fifth Letter, written to the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, is one of the most historically signicant documents in the annals of European exploration and conquest of the Americas. Dated October 3, 1526, this letter offers a comprehensive account of Cortés' activities and experiences in the New World, particularly focusing on his expeditionary efforts in Mexico.  

The letter begins with Cortés detailing his journey and initial encounters in Mexico. He describes the complex political and social landscapes of the Aztec Empire, emphasizing the strategic alliances and conflicts that shaped his expedition.    Cortés also addresses the military campaigns and confrontations with the Aztec Empire. He recounts the events leading up to and following the fall of Tenochtitlán, including the pivotal role played by the Tlaxcalans, an indigenous group allied with the Spanish. The Fifth Letter delves into the administrative and organizational efforts undertaken by Cortés in establishing Spanish colonial rule. He discusses the challenges of governance, the establishment of new settlements, and efforts to evangelize the indigenous populations. 

Cortés' Fifth Letter also reveals his personal ambitions and his perspective on the role of the Spanish Crown in the New World. He seeks to justify his actions and decisions, portraying them as efforts to expand and strengthen the Spanish Empire.