Teotihuacan

Definition

Teotihuacan was an ancient Mesoamerican city located in the Basin of Mexico, known for its massive pyramids and complex urban layout. It was one of the largest cities in the world during its peak around 500 AD, serving as a major cultural and economic center that influenced trade networks, agricultural practices, and technologies throughout Mesoamerica.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Teotihuacan was established around 200 BC and reached its zenith between 100 AD and 500 AD, becoming one of the largest cities in the world at that time.
2. The city's urban planning included a grid layout, with wide avenues such as the Avenue of the Dead that connected major monuments like the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon.
3. Teotihuacan's economy was supported by a combination of agriculture and trade, with extensive networks that reached as far as the Gulf Coast and Southwestern United States.
4. The city is known for its influence on later Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Aztecs, who revered it as a place of great cultural significance and mythological importance.
5. Teotihuacan's decline began around the 7th century, possibly due to environmental factors, resource depletion, or social upheaval, leading to its eventual abandonment.

Review Questions

• How did Teotihuacan's urban planning reflect its societal organization and cultural values?
  • Teotihuacan's urban planning showcased a well-organized society with a clear layout that emphasized both functionality and spirituality. The grid pattern facilitated movement and trade while major structures like the Pyramid of the Sun highlighted the importance of religious practices. This careful planning suggests a sophisticated understanding of urban design that promoted communal activities and reflected the city's cultural values.
• In what ways did Teotihuacan influence trade networks across Mesoamerica?
  • Teotihuacan was a central hub in Mesoamerican trade networks, connecting various regions through its strategic location. The city facilitated the exchange of goods such as obsidian, textiles, and agricultural products, which not only enriched its economy but also fostered cultural interactions among different groups. This extensive trade network helped to integrate diverse cultures and spread technologies across vast distances.
• Evaluate the impact of agricultural techniques on the economy and sustainability of Teotihuacan.
  • Agricultural techniques such as chinampa agriculture significantly impacted Teotihuacan's economy by enabling high crop yields in a challenging environment. This sustainable method allowed for year-round farming, supporting a growing population and contributing to the city's wealth. The success in agriculture helped sustain trade networks and urban growth but also posed challenges as reliance on these methods increased pressure on local resources, leading to long-term sustainability issues that may have contributed to its decline.

Related terms

Pyramid of the Sun: The largest structure in Teotihuacan, this pyramid is believed to have been a major religious site and serves as a symbol of the city's architectural achievements.

Mesoamerican Trade Network: A complex system of trade routes connecting various cultures in Mesoamerica, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and agricultural products.

Chinampa Agriculture: A highly productive agricultural method used by Mesoamerican civilizations, including those around Teotihuacan, involving the creation of floating gardens in lakes.