The piece presents a fragment from the forthcoming book "The End of Everything. How War Leads to Destruction" by Victor Davis Hanson, set to be published in 2026. It explores the historical encounter between the Aztecs and European conquerors, particularly contrasting the arrival of Spanish forces with that of the English Pilgrims a century later. The author suggests that the misfortunes faced by the Aztecs were significantly impacted by the nature and intentions of their colonizers. While the Spanish Conquistadors, including Cortés, arrived primarily as warriors with minimal family ties, English Pilgrims came seeking refuge and with the intent of establishing a stable, community-oriented society in North America.

Hanson elaborates on the differences in motivations between these groups: the Spanish sought wealth and glory through conquest, whereas the English were fleeing religious persecution and aimed to cultivate a new life through agriculture and trade. This examination of historical contexts serves to highlight the complexities of colonial interactions and the lasting implications they have on both the colonized and colonizers. Through the lens of Hanson’s analysis, readers are invited to reflect on how the legacies of such encounters continue to influence modern societies and power dynamics.

As the world currently grapples with conflicts reminiscent of these past encounters, Hanson’s insights could be perceived as a cautionary tale regarding the consequences of war and conquest. The disparate journeys of these historical figures underline fundamental challenges faced by societies in turmoil, emphasizing the need for understanding motivations and repercussions as they shape the course of history.