2. What was the most significant factor in the Spaniards' defeat of the Mexicans? O Mexican priests advised military commanders that the gods had abandoned them, leading to mass desertions. O The Spaniards formed alliances with subjugated Indians, neutralizing the Mexicans' numerical superiority. OA smallpox epidemic swept through the Mexican empire, decimating the population. O The Mexicans' stone, wood, and copper weapons were no match for the Spaniards' guns and steel.