Aztec

Definition

The Aztec civilization was a Mesoamerican culture that flourished in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th centuries, known for its advanced societal structure, impressive architecture, and rich mythology. The Aztecs established a powerful empire through military conquest, tribute systems, and a strong religious foundation that influenced their governance and cultural practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Aztec Empire was established in the early 14th century and reached its peak by the early 16th century before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors.
2. The Aztecs practiced human sacrifice as an important part of their religious rituals, believing it was essential to appease their gods and ensure agricultural fertility.
3. They were skilled engineers and builders, constructing impressive structures like the Templo Mayor in Tenochtitlan, which served as a central place of worship.
4. The Aztec economy was based on agriculture, trade, and tribute collection, with maize being the staple crop that sustained their population.
5. Spanish conquest led to the rapid decline of the Aztec Empire, culminating in the fall of Tenochtitlan in 1521, which had lasting impacts on indigenous cultures in the region.

Review Questions

• How did the tributary system contribute to the economic strength of the Aztec Empire?
  • The tributary system was vital to the Aztec economy as it allowed them to extract wealth from conquered regions. This system ensured a steady flow of resources such as food, textiles, and luxury goods into Tenochtitlan. By controlling trade routes and demanding tribute from surrounding communities, the Aztecs not only enriched their empire but also reinforced their political power over those regions.
• Analyze the role of religion in shaping Aztec society and governance.
  • Religion was central to Aztec society and influenced all aspects of life. The Aztecs believed their gods required human sacrifices to maintain cosmic order, which justified their military conquests to capture victims. This connection between religion and governance created a society where leaders were seen as intermediaries between gods and people, using religious authority to consolidate power and unify the population under shared beliefs.
• Evaluate the impacts of Spanish colonization on the Aztec Empire and its cultural legacy.
  • The Spanish colonization had devastating impacts on the Aztec Empire, leading to its collapse in 1521. Disease brought by Europeans decimated the indigenous population, while warfare destroyed cities and disrupted social structures. Despite this destruction, elements of Aztec culture persisted through syncretism with Spanish traditions, influencing modern Mexican identity. The legacy of the Aztecs can still be seen today in language, customs, and art throughout Mexico.

Related terms

Tenochtitlan:

The capital city of the Aztec Empire, located on an island in Lake Texcoco, known for its complex canal systems and impressive temples.

Quetzalcoatl: A major deity in Aztec mythology, often depicted as a feathered serpent, representing wind, air, and learning.

Tributary System: A system used by the Aztecs to extract tribute from conquered peoples, which included goods, services, and labor in exchange for protection and trade.