The Aztec civilization was a complex and highly structured society that thrived in the central region of modern-day Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century. The Aztecs, also known as the Mexica, established their capital at Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco, which is now part of Mexico City.
1. The Emperor: At the apex of Aztec society was the Emperor, known as the Huey Tlatoani or "Great Speaker." He was considered semi-divine, with the role of both ruler and high priest, responsible for the well-being of his people and the empire's expansion.
2. Nobility: Below the emperor were the nobles or Pipiltin, who included high-ranking officials, military leaders, and priests. They had significant influence over political, religious, and military affairs.
3. Commoners (Macehualtin): The majority of the population were commoners, who were divided into several classes: - Free commoners: They owned land, farmed, paid taxes, and could join the military. - Poors: Those who had no land or property and often worked as servants or laborers.
4. Serfs and Slaves: Serfs were attached to the land they worked on, while slaves, known as Tlaca, could be sold or traded but had certain rights, including the ability to buy back their freedom.
The family was the core unit of Aztec society. Marriage was considered sacred, and polygamy was practiced by the nobility. Education was highly valued, with children attending Telpochcalli (commoner schools) or Calmecac (schools for nobles), where they learned history, religion, warfare, and civic duties.
The Aztec economy was based on agriculture, with maize being the staple crop. Other crops included beans, squash, and cacao. Trade was facilitated through a sophisticated network of markets, with Tlatelolco being one of the most famous marketplaces. The Aztecs used a form of currency called Quachtli, which was made from cocoa beans and various goods.
Religion was integral to Aztec life, with numerous gods and goddesses, each associated with different aspects of life. The Aztecs practiced human sacrifice to appease their gods, particularly Huitzilopochtli, the sun god and patron of Tenochtitlan, to ensure the sun's daily journey and the continuation of life.
Aztec art included intricate featherwork, monumental architecture like Templo Mayor, and extensive codices that recorded historical and religious events. Music, dance, and poetry were also significant cultural expressions.
The Aztec society began to decline with the arrival of Spanish conquistadors led by Hernan Cortes in 1519. Factors like diseases brought by Europeans, superior military technology, and alliances with other indigenous groups led to the fall of Tenochtitlan in 1521.