Aztec Civilization
The Aztec Civilization was a pre-Columbian Mesoamerican culture that flourished in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century. This civilization is best known for its capital city, Tenochtitlan, which was built on an island in Lake Texcoco, now the site of modern-day Mexico City.
History
- Origins: The Aztecs, or more properly called Mexica, were one of the last groups to migrate into the Valley of Mexico. According to their legends, they came from a mythical place called Aztlan, though its exact location remains a subject of debate among historians.
- Rise to Power: After a period of wandering, the Mexica settled on the marshy island where they founded Tenochtitlan in 1325 AD. Their rise to prominence was rapid, especially after forming the Triple Alliance with Texcoco and Tlacopan in 1428, which became the basis of the Aztec Empire.
- Expansion: Under leaders like Montezuma I and Ahuitzotl, the empire expanded through conquest, bringing many different groups under their control through military might, alliances, and tribute systems.
- Decline: The arrival of the Spanish, led by Hernán Cortés, in 1519 marked the beginning of the end for the Aztecs. Despite initial resistance, smallpox introduced by the Europeans decimated the population, and internal divisions weakened the empire, leading to its fall in 1521.
Culture and Society
- Religion: Religion was central to Aztec life, with numerous gods like Huitzilopochtli (the sun god) and Quetzalcoatl (the feathered serpent). Human sacrifice was a significant aspect of their religious practices, believed to appease the gods for fertility and the continuation of the world.
- Art and Architecture: The Aztecs were skilled artists and architects. Their art included intricate jewelry, sculpture, and featherwork. Architectural achievements include the Templo Mayor, a large pyramid dedicated to Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc.
- Language: The primary language was Nahuatl, which remains spoken by some indigenous communities in Mexico today.
- Social Structure: Society was highly stratified with nobles, commoners, serfs, and slaves. At the top was the emperor, followed by a nobility composed of military leaders, high priests, and officials.
Economy
The Aztecs had a sophisticated economy based on agriculture, trade, and tribute. They cultivated crops like maize, beans, and squash, using chinampas or "floating gardens" in Lake Texcoco for intensive agriculture. Trade was facilitated by a network of roads and markets, with pochtecas (professional traders) playing a significant role. The tribute system ensured that conquered territories provided goods to the empire's capital.
Legacy
The legacy of the Aztecs is profound, influencing modern Mexican culture, particularly in terms of language, cuisine, and traditions. Their historical accounts, written in codices and books like the Florentine Codex, provide invaluable insights into pre-Columbian life.
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