Aztec

Definition

The Aztec civilization was a Mesoamerican culture that thrived from the 14th to the 16th century in what is now Mexico. Known for their advanced society, impressive architecture, and rich mythology, the Aztecs established a vast empire through military conquests and strategic alliances before their eventual fall to Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Aztecs developed a tribute system where conquered peoples were required to pay taxes in goods and services, which helped sustain their empire's wealth and resources.
2. Their society was highly stratified, with a ruling class of nobles, priests, and warriors at the top, followed by merchants, artisans, and farmers.
3. The Aztecs practiced human sacrifice as part of their religious rituals, believing it was necessary to appease their gods and ensure the sun would rise.
4. The Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire began in 1519 and was facilitated by alliances with rival indigenous groups who opposed Aztec rule.
5. The fall of Tenochtitlan in 1521 marked the end of the Aztec Empire and laid the foundation for Spanish colonization in Mexico.

Review Questions

• How did the social structure of the Aztec civilization influence its political power and military success?
  • The social structure of the Aztec civilization was hierarchical, with a ruling elite composed of nobles, priests, and warriors at the top. This stratification allowed for effective leadership and organization in military campaigns. The nobility provided skilled leaders while the warrior class ensured military success, enabling the Aztecs to expand their territory through conquest and maintain control over their vast empire.
• Discuss the significance of Tenochtitlan as the capital of the Aztec Empire and how its location contributed to its prosperity.
  • Tenochtitlan was strategically located on an island in Lake Texcoco, which made it easier to defend against potential invasions while providing access to resources like fish and water. The city's layout featured advanced agricultural techniques like chinampas that maximized food production. Its impressive architecture and vibrant markets also made Tenochtitlan a hub of trade and culture, solidifying its role as the heart of the Aztec Empire.
• Evaluate the impact of Spanish colonization on the legacy of the Aztec civilization and Mesoamerican history.
  • The Spanish colonization led to the rapid decline of the Aztec civilization, resulting in significant cultural upheaval and loss of indigenous practices. The conquest not only decimated the population through violence and disease but also facilitated the introduction of European customs, religions, and languages that reshaped Mesoamerican identity. Despite this tragic downfall, elements of Aztec culture endure today in modern Mexican traditions, language, and societal practices, illustrating a complex legacy that intertwines indigenous heritage with colonial history.

Related terms

Tenochtitlan: The capital city of the Aztec Empire, built on an island in Lake Texcoco, known for its complex architecture and extensive canals.

Quetzalcoatl: A significant deity in Aztec religion, often depicted as a feathered serpent and associated with wind, air, and learning.

Chinampas: An innovative agricultural technique used by the Aztecs involving floating gardens that allowed for efficient farming in lake areas.