Ep 15. Aftermath: Ivan the Terrble vs. Hernan Cortes

In the gripping season finale of Deadliest Warrior, Episode 15, the stage is set for an epic showdown between two of history's most notorious figures: Ivan the Terrible and Hernan Cortes. This Aftermath episode delves deep into the aftermath of a virtual battle that explores the military strategies, weaponry, and the broader historical implications of their reigns and conflicts.

The episode opens with a reflection on the backgrounds of both warriors. Ivan IV, known as Ivan the Terrible, was the first Tsar of all Russia and reigned during the 16th century. His era was marked by significant political consolidation, intense mental anguish, and a brutal reputation that stemmed from both his military campaigns and a notorious reign of terror against his own nobility. We delve into his life as a young prince, the hardships he faced, his subsequent rise to power, and the panic that gripped his enemies. Viewers gain insight into his military innovations, including the use of artillery and a new class of military nobility, that set the stage for his expansionist ambitions.

Contrasting Ivan's narrative is that of Hernan Cortes, the famed Spanish Conquistador who is best known for his expedition that led to the fall of the Aztec Empire. Cortes’s journey is filled with ambition, audacity, and ruthless tactics which culminated in one of history’s most well-known encounters with indigenous empires. As the episode explores Cortes’s conquests, it highlights his strategic alliances with native tribes, his manipulation of local politics, and the impact of his encounters with the Aztec leader Montezuma II. Viewers witness how Cortes's adept use of firearms, horses, and a small yet elite band of soldiers allowed him to establish a foothold in the New World, forever altering the course of history.

Throughout the episode, each warrior's weapons and combat styles are analyzed in depth. Historical experts and combat specialists break down the arsenals of Ivan and Hernan, examining the effectiveness of the weapons they wielded. The episode showcases Ivan’s use of the iconic 16th-century armor, including the dreaded "Boyar" nobility military units, alongside heavy artillery that changed the face of warfare in Eastern Europe. In contrast, Cortes's cavalry and advanced Spanish swords, including the rapier, are dissected, showcasing how they were formidable against the traditionally lighter equipped indigenous warriors he faced.

The Aftermath episode doesn’t shy away from the ethical and moral implications of their legacies. Discussions unfold about the extreme violence associated with both figures, prompting an analysis not just of their military prowess, but also the long-lasting effects of their conquests on the territories they sought to dominate. By weighing the brutality of Ivan's oppressive rule against Cortes's violent conquests and colonization efforts, a complex picture emerges that challenges viewers to reflect on historical narratives and the nature of power.

As the episode progresses, the show also incorporates reflections from historians, military philosophers, and combat analysts who weigh in on the insights gleaned from the simulated battle. Their discussions offer a well-rounded understanding of how both Ivan and Hernan shaped the world in which they lived, and the legacies they left behind for future generations to interpret — legacies that are often as revered as they are reviled.

Culminating in an ultimate analysis, the episode draws conclusions based on the outcomes of the battle simulations. Viewers are presented with a detailed overview of key moments that influenced the simulated confrontation. Who emerged victorious based on their respective combat styles, and what does that mean for our understanding of their stories? This finale episode encapsulates the intrigue and suspense of the Deadliest Warrior series, leaving viewers enthralled by the historical depth and the thrilling conclusion of season three.

Finally, the episode closes with questions for the audience to ponder: How do we judge the actions of these historic figures today? What can modern warfare learn from the techniques and strategies employed by Ivan the Terrible and Hernan Cortes? The Aftermath episode continues the show's legacy of combining entertainment with education, ensuring that history remains alive and relevant as it examines the legacies left behind by these legendary warriors.