Final answer:
Narváez was sent to Veracruz to arrest Hernan Cortes for his disobedience of government orders, which ultimately led to significant historical events, including the conquest of the Aztec Empire and the establishment of Mexico City.
Step-by-step explanation:
Narváez was sent to Veracruz to arrest Hernan Cortes for his disobedience of government orders. This act of defiance was a significant moment in the early colonial history of the Americas. Cortes, who arrived in Veracruz in 1519, had his mission officially canceled by the governor of Cuba, but he chose to ignore these orders and proceeded with his plans. Believing in a prophecy that mistook Cortes for the god Quetzalcoatl, the Aztecs welcomed him with gifts. Nonetheless, determined to conquer, Cortes sank his ships to prevent retreat, signifying his commitment to his mission in the New World.
Upon reaching Tenochtitlan, Cortes strategically took the Aztec leader, Moctezuma II, hostage. This decision would lead to a series of confrontations ultimately resulting in the fall of Tenochtitlan and the foundation of Mexico City on its ruins. When Cortes heard that forces had been sent by the Cuban governor to arrest him, he temporarily left Tenochtitlan to confront and defeat the Spanish force led by Narváez. Unfortunately, upon his return, he found Tenochtitlan in rebellion, leading to the infamous 'Noche Triste' where many of his men were killed.
In the following years, Cortes would solidify his power in the area, ultimately being appointed as governor of New Spain in 1522. His defiance of orders would have a longstanding impact on the history of the region, the shape of Spanish colonialism, and the lives of the native peoples.