Aztec

Definition

The Aztec civilization was a powerful Mesoamerican culture that flourished in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th centuries, known for its complex society, impressive architectural achievements, and advanced agricultural practices. The Aztecs established a vast empire through military conquest and alliances, becoming one of the most influential civilizations in the Americas before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Aztec Empire was established around 1428 and grew to dominate much of central Mexico through a combination of warfare and strategic alliances.
2. The Aztecs practiced polytheism, worshiping a pantheon of gods, with rituals often involving human sacrifices to appease these deities and ensure agricultural fertility.
3. The agricultural techniques of the Aztecs included chinampas, or floating gardens, which allowed them to maximize crop production on the swampy land around Tenochtitlan.
4. The empire's society was stratified into classes, with a ruling class of nobles and priests at the top, followed by warriors, merchants, artisans, and farmers.
5. The arrival of Hernán Cortés in 1519 marked the beginning of the end for the Aztec civilization, leading to its eventual collapse due to warfare, disease, and alliances formed by the Spanish with rival tribes.

Review Questions

• What were some key factors that contributed to the rise of the Aztec Empire?
  • The rise of the Aztec Empire was influenced by several key factors including their strategic location in central Mexico which allowed for trade and military expansion. Their military prowess enabled them to conquer neighboring city-states and build alliances that expanded their influence. Additionally, their advanced agricultural techniques such as chinampas facilitated surplus food production which supported a growing population and urban development.
• Discuss the significance of Tenochtitlan within the context of Aztec society and culture.
  • Tenochtitlan was not only the capital but also the heart of Aztec civilization. Its impressive layout featured temples, palaces, and marketplaces that showcased their architectural skills and social organization. The city's unique location on an island facilitated trade with surrounding regions and demonstrated advanced engineering through causeways and aqueducts. It served as a political and religious center where major rituals were performed, reinforcing the power of the ruling class.
• Evaluate the impact of Spanish colonization on the Aztec civilization and how it transformed Mesoamerican history.
  • Spanish colonization had a profound impact on the Aztec civilization, leading to its dramatic downfall. The arrival of Hernán Cortés initiated a series of military confrontations that exploited existing rivalries among indigenous groups. The spread of European diseases decimated the indigenous population, which compounded their vulnerabilities. Ultimately, this conquest not only dismantled Aztec political structures but also led to cultural transformations as European influences integrated into Mesoamerican societies, reshaping their history for centuries to come.

Related terms

Tenochtitlan: The capital city of the Aztec Empire, built on an island in Lake Texcoco, known for its stunning architecture and advanced engineering.

Quetzalcoatl: A significant deity in Aztec religion, often associated with wind, air, and learning, representing the duality of life and death.

Tribute System: A method used by the Aztecs to extract resources and labor from conquered peoples, often demanding goods or services in exchange for protection and governance.