Aztec city-states

Definition

Aztec city-states were independent, self-governing urban centers that formed the basis of the Aztec Empire in Mesoamerica, primarily from the 14th to the early 16th centuries. These city-states, known as 'altepetl,' were characterized by their own political systems, economies, and religious practices, while also being part of a larger network of tribute and trade relationships with one another. The most notable city-state was Tenochtitlan, which served as the capital and a hub of political and cultural life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aztec city-states were politically autonomous yet culturally linked through shared language, religion, and customs, leading to a complex web of alliances and rivalries.
2. Tenochtitlan was one of the largest cities in the world at its peak, featuring elaborate temples and a complex system of canals for transportation.
3. The Aztecs used a tribute system that required conquered territories to provide resources such as food, textiles, and precious metals to support the capital and other city-states.
4. Religious ceremonies were central to life in Aztec city-states, often involving human sacrifices to appease their gods, reflecting the importance of religion in governance.
5. The decline of the Aztec city-states began with Spanish conquest led by Hernán Cortés in 1519, marking a significant shift in Mesoamerican history.

Review Questions

• Compare and contrast Tenochtitlan with other Aztec city-states regarding their political structures and economies.
  • Tenochtitlan was unique among Aztec city-states due to its size and status as the capital. It had a centralized government that exerted control over surrounding city-states through tribute demands and military might. While other city-states like Texcoco and Tlacopan had their own local governments and economies based on agriculture and trade, Tenochtitlan's economy thrived due to its location on Lake Texcoco, which facilitated extensive trade networks and agricultural productivity.
• Analyze how the tribute system functioned within the network of Aztec city-states and its impact on their relationships.
  • The tribute system was essential for maintaining power dynamics among Aztec city-states. It required conquered areas to provide valuable goods to their rulers in Tenochtitlan, fostering dependency but also resentment among subjugated populations. This system allowed for wealth accumulation in Tenochtitlan while promoting inter-city relationships based on trade agreements and military alliances. However, it also led to tensions that could spark conflict when tribute demands became excessive or when cities sought independence.
• Evaluate the significance of religious practices in Aztec city-states and how they influenced political authority and social structures.
  • Religious practices were integral to Aztec society, serving as a unifying force among the city-states while also legitimizing political authority. Rulers claimed divine right to govern based on their ability to perform rituals that appeased gods. Human sacrifices were particularly significant, believed necessary for maintaining cosmic balance and agricultural fertility. This intertwining of religion with governance created a social hierarchy where priests held considerable power alongside political leaders, influencing all aspects of daily life and state affairs.

Related terms

Tenochtitlan:

The capital city of the Aztec Empire, located on an island in Lake Texcoco, known for its impressive architecture, advanced engineering, and vibrant economy.

Tribute System:

The economic and political structure in which conquered peoples paid tribute to the Aztec city-states in the form of goods, labor, or military support.

Pochteca: The professional merchant class in Aztec society responsible for long-distance trade and the exchange of goods between different city-states.