key term - Aztecs (Mesoamerica)

Definition

The Aztecs were a powerful civilization that emerged in Mesoamerica, particularly in the Valley of Mexico, during the 14th to 16th centuries. They are known for their impressive architectural achievements, complex social structure, and religious practices centered around a pantheon of gods. The Aztec Empire's expansion and influence significantly shaped the cultural and political landscape of the region during the period from 1200 to 1450.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Aztec Empire was established in the early 14th century, with Tenochtitlan as its capital city and a population that eventually reached over 200,000 people.
2. Aztecs practiced a polytheistic religion that included human sacrifices to appease their gods, which they believed were necessary to ensure agricultural fertility and cosmic balance.
3. Their economy was based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of maize, beans, and squash, supported by advanced agricultural techniques such as chinampas (floating gardens).
4. The Aztecs were highly skilled artisans and builders, creating monumental structures like the Templo Mayor and producing intricate pottery and jewelry.
5. By the early 16th century, the Aztec Empire had expanded to control large parts of Mesoamerica through a combination of military conquests and strategic alliances.

Review Questions

• How did the social structure of the Aztec Empire influence its political power and military organization?
  • The social structure of the Aztec Empire was hierarchical, consisting of nobles, priests, warriors, commoners, and slaves. This hierarchy allowed for a strong political organization where nobles held significant power and responsibilities. The military was closely tied to this structure; noble warriors gained prestige through conquests, which helped consolidate their power within society while expanding the empire's territory.
• Discuss the role of religious beliefs in shaping Aztec culture and daily life.
  • Religion played a central role in Aztec culture, influencing every aspect of daily life from politics to agriculture. The Aztecs believed their gods required regular sacrifices to maintain the balance of the universe. This belief led to elaborate rituals and festivals that were integral to their society. Temples dedicated to various deities served as both religious centers and sites for community gatherings, reinforcing social cohesion and cultural identity.
• Evaluate the impact of the Aztec Empire's tribute system on its economy and relations with neighboring peoples.
  • The tribute system was crucial for the economic stability of the Aztec Empire as it generated substantial wealth through goods and resources collected from conquered territories. This system also fostered relationships with neighboring peoples—some viewed it as oppressive while others formed alliances for protection against common enemies. The dependence on tribute created a network of interrelationships that both enriched and strained connections between different cultures in Mesoamerica.

Related terms

Tenochtitlan:

The capital city of the Aztec Empire, located on an island in Lake Texcoco, known for its sophisticated urban planning, impressive temples, and as the center of trade and politics.

Tribute System:

A system where conquered peoples were required to pay tribute to the Aztec Empire, often in the form of goods or labor, which helped sustain its economy and power.

Quetzalcoatl: A major deity in Aztec religion, often depicted as a feathered serpent, representing wind and learning, and associated with creation and the arts.