Aztec Empire

Definition

The Aztec Empire was a powerful and complex civilization that thrived in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century, known for its rich culture, advanced agricultural practices, and impressive architectural achievements. This empire was a dominant force in Mesoamerica, establishing vast trade networks and engaging in military conquests that would later catch the attention of Spanish explorers and conquistadors such as Cortés and Pizarro.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Aztec Empire was formed in the early 14th century, with Tenochtitlan becoming its capital around 1325.
2. The empire expanded through military conquest and alliances, eventually controlling large parts of modern-day Mexico.
3. Aztec society was hierarchical, with a ruling class that included nobles and priests, while commoners made up the majority of the population.
4. The Aztecs practiced human sacrifice as part of their religious rituals, believing it was necessary to appease their gods and ensure agricultural fertility.
5. The arrival of Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés in 1519 marked the beginning of the end for the Aztec Empire, ultimately leading to its fall in 1521.

Review Questions

• How did the political structure of the Aztec Empire influence its military conquests?
  • The Aztec Empire had a highly structured political hierarchy that allowed for organized military campaigns. The rulers and nobility played crucial roles in planning and leading these conquests, while their wealth from tribute helped fund military expeditions. The centralized power of the emperor also enabled quick decision-making during warfare, allowing the Aztecs to expand their territory rapidly and effectively.
• Evaluate the impact of the Aztec tribute system on both their economy and their relationships with neighboring tribes.
  • The tribute system was fundamental to the Aztec economy, providing resources that supported their vast empire and military efforts. By demanding goods from conquered tribes, the Aztecs ensured a steady flow of resources, which strengthened their economic base. However, this system also created resentment among subject peoples, leading to strained relationships that would be exploited by Spanish conquistadors when they sought alliances with these discontented groups during the conquest.
• Synthesize how the cultural practices of the Aztecs contributed to their identity as a civilization and influenced Spanish perceptions during conquest.
  • The cultural practices of the Aztecs, including their complex religion involving human sacrifice and vibrant artistic expressions, were integral to their identity as a civilization. These practices set them apart from European societies and fueled Spanish perceptions of the Aztecs as both exotic and barbaric. The Spaniards, particularly Cortés, used these views to justify their conquest as a civilizing mission while exploiting existing tensions among indigenous groups who were unhappy with Aztec rule.

Related terms

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

Quetzalcoatl: A prominent deity in Aztec mythology, often associated with wind and wisdom, who played a significant role in Aztec religion and culture.

Tribute System: A system used by the Aztecs to collect goods and resources from conquered peoples, which helped sustain their economy and support their military campaigns.