The Toltecs
The Toltecs were a pre-Columbian Mesoamerican people who occupied central Mexico from the 10th to the 12th centuries CE. Their cultural influence extended beyond their political domain, impacting later civilizations like the Aztecs and the Maya.
Historical Context
The Toltecs are often credited with the development of a sophisticated culture centered around the city of Tula, also known as Tollan, which was their capital. This city, located in what is now the Mexican state of Hidalgo, served as a major center for political, religious, and economic activities.
Origins and Settlement
The origins of the Toltecs are somewhat debated among historians. They are thought to have emerged from various groups that migrated into central Mexico following the decline of Teotihuacan. By the 10th century, the Toltecs had established a significant presence in the region.
Cultural Achievements
- Art and Architecture: Toltec art is known for its fine craftsmanship in stone, particularly the creation of large stone sculptures and intricate carvings. The architecture of Tula includes the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, adorned with feathered serpent motifs, and the Atlantean Columns, representing warriors or gods.
- Religion: Their religious practices were deeply intertwined with their political structure. The Toltecs worshipped multiple deities, with Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent, being one of the most prominent. Other deities included Tlaloc, the rain god, and Tezcatlipoca, associated with the night sky, sorcery, and destiny.
- Economy and Trade: The Toltecs had a complex economy based on agriculture, with maize being the staple crop. They also engaged in extensive trade networks, exchanging goods like obsidian, jade, and turquoise for cacao, feathers, and other luxury items.
Decline
The decline of the Toltec civilization around the 12th century is not well-documented but is often attributed to a combination of internal strife, external invasions, and possibly environmental changes. The city of Tula was largely abandoned, and its influence waned, paving the way for the rise of other groups in the region.
Legacy
The legacy of the Toltecs was profound:
- They were mythologized by subsequent cultures, particularly by the Aztecs, who considered themselves descendants of the Toltecs, referring to them as great builders and skilled artisans.
- The term "Toltec" came to symbolize artisanship and wisdom in later Mesoamerican societies.
- Their architectural and artistic styles influenced many later Mesoamerican cultures.
Sources
For further reading on the Toltecs:
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