Aztecs

Definition

The Aztecs were a Mesoamerican civilization that thrived in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century. Known for their advanced agricultural practices, rich mythology, and impressive architectural achievements, the Aztecs also had a complex social structure and a strong military presence, which allowed them to dominate much of Mesoamerica before Spanish colonization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Aztecs established a powerful empire through a combination of military conquest and alliances with neighboring city-states.
2. Their society was structured into distinct classes, including nobles, priests, warriors, merchants, and farmers, each playing specific roles in Aztec life.
3. The Aztecs practiced a polytheistic religion with numerous gods, often involving elaborate rituals and ceremonies to honor them.
4. Agriculture was central to the Aztec economy, with the use of chinampas (floating gardens) enhancing food production.
5. The arrival of Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés in 1519 marked the beginning of the end for the Aztec Empire due to warfare and diseases brought by the Europeans.

Review Questions

• How did the social structure of the Aztecs influence their daily life and governance?
  • The social structure of the Aztecs was hierarchical and consisted of different classes such as nobles, priests, warriors, merchants, and farmers. This hierarchy influenced daily life as individuals were expected to fulfill specific roles based on their class. Nobles held political power and made decisions regarding governance while priests conducted religious ceremonies. The warriors were tasked with defending the empire and expanding its territories. This structured society allowed for efficient governance and resource management within the empire.
• Discuss the significance of Tenochtitlan in the context of the Aztec Empire's political and economic power.
  • Tenochtitlan was the heart of the Aztec Empire and served as its capital city. Its location on an island in Lake Texcoco allowed for strategic military advantages and trade routes. The city was a hub of economic activity with bustling marketplaces where goods were exchanged. Politically, Tenochtitlan was where major decisions were made by leaders and where religious practices were centralized. The city's impressive architecture symbolized the power and sophistication of the Aztec civilization.
• Evaluate the impact of human sacrifice in Aztec society and its role in their religious beliefs and practices.
  • Human sacrifice was a crucial aspect of Aztec religion, believed to be necessary to appease their gods and ensure cosmic balance. It reflected their worldview that life was interconnected with divine forces. Sacrifices were often conducted during significant religious festivals and were seen as acts of devotion that would ensure agricultural fertility and societal stability. However, this practice also created a fearsome reputation for the Aztecs among neighboring cultures and ultimately contributed to their vulnerability when confronted by Spanish conquistadors who exploited these perceptions.

Related terms

Tenochtitlan: The capital city of the Aztec Empire, located on an island in Lake Texcoco, known for its elaborate temples, canals, and vibrant marketplaces.

Quetzalcoatl: A major deity in Aztec mythology, represented as a feathered serpent, associated with creation, wind, and knowledge.

Human Sacrifice: A religious practice among the Aztecs that involved offering human lives to appease gods and ensure the continuation of life, agriculture, and the cosmos.