Aztecas

Definition

The Aztecas, or Aztecs, were a Mesoamerican civilization that thrived in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century. Known for their rich culture, advanced agricultural techniques, and impressive architectural achievements, the Aztecas played a significant role in the historical narrative of the region, especially in relation to Hernán Cortés's accounts in 'La segunda carta de relación'.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Aztecas established a vast empire that included numerous city-states, known as 'altepetl', each governed by a king and subject to the emperor's authority.
2. Hernán Cortés described the wealth and splendor of the Aztec Empire in his letters, emphasizing their advanced architecture and urban organization.
3. The Aztecas practiced human sacrifice as part of their religious rituals, believing it was essential to appease their gods and ensure the continuation of the world.
4. Their sophisticated agricultural practices included chinampas, or floating gardens, which allowed them to maximize farming output in the challenging environment of central Mexico.
5. The fall of Tenochtitlán in 1521 marked the end of the Aztec Empire and was a pivotal event in Cortés's accounts, showcasing the clash between Spanish colonizers and indigenous civilizations.

Review Questions

• How did Hernán Cortés portray the Aztecas in his letters, particularly in terms of their culture and society?
  • In his letters, Hernán Cortés portrayed the Aztecas as a highly developed civilization with rich cultural practices and impressive urban infrastructure. He emphasized their wealth, particularly their gold and silver resources, which captured the attention of Spain. Cortés also noted their intricate social structures and religious beliefs, showcasing both admiration for their achievements and a sense of justification for his conquest.
• Discuss the significance of Tenochtitlán as a center of Aztec civilization and how it contributed to their power.
  • Tenochtitlán was not only the capital of the Aztec Empire but also a symbol of its power and sophistication. Its strategic location on an island allowed for effective trade routes and defense. The city featured advanced architectural designs, such as temples and palaces, which demonstrated the Aztecs' engineering skills. The city's layout facilitated commerce and administration, making it a hub that supported the empire’s expansion and integration of conquered territories.
• Evaluate how the tributary system employed by the Aztecas contributed to both their strength as an empire and their vulnerability during the Spanish conquest.
  • The tributary system was crucial for the Aztecas’ economic stability, allowing them to extract resources from conquered peoples and maintain their vast empire. This system enabled them to fund military campaigns and public works. However, it also created resentment among subjugated groups who were burdened by tribute demands. When Hernán Cortés arrived, some groups saw an opportunity to ally with him against their oppressors, ultimately leading to the collapse of Aztec power despite its initial strength.

Related terms

Tenochtitlán: The capital city of the Aztec Empire, built on an island in Lake Texcoco, known for its complex urban planning and grand temples.

Quetzalcoatl: A prominent deity in Aztec mythology, often represented as a feathered serpent, symbolizing wisdom and the wind.

Tributary System: The economic system used by the Aztecs where conquered peoples paid tribute in goods or labor, which helped sustain their empire.