The Cocoliztli epidemic of 1545 was a catastrophic hemorrhagic fever outbreak that decimated the native population of New Spain, killing millions and severely crippling indigenous societal infrastructure. This epidemic followed closely after the arrival of Europeans, compounding the effects of colonization and leading to significant demographic shifts. The Cocoliztli epidemic serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of disease on indigenous populations during the colonial period.

The Cocoliztli epidemic of 1545 devastated indigenous poetic traditions, leading to a fusion of Christian and Nahuatl themes in laments that reflected the profound cultural shifts and losses experienced by native communities. This blending of traditions enriched the poetic landscape, allowing for new expressions of grief and resilience.