Aztec

Aztec refers to a Mesoamerican culture that flourished in central Mexico in the post-classic period from 1300 to 1521. The term "Aztec" is often used to refer to the Mexica people, who were the dominant ethnic group in the alliance that controlled much of central Mexico at the time of the Spanish conquest.

History

The Aztec civilization originated from the Mexica people, who migrated from the north to the Valley of Mexico in the early 13th century. They established their capital, Tenochtitlan, on an island in Lake Texcoco. The city became the center of the Aztec Empire, which expanded through military conquest and alliances.

Society

Aztec society was highly stratified, with a ruling class of nobles, priests, and warriors, and a lower class of commoners, serfs, and slaves. The emperor, known as the Tlatoani, held supreme power. The Aztecs practiced a polytheistic religion, worshipping gods such as Huitzilopochtli, the god of war, and Tlaloc, the god of rain.

Economy

The Aztec economy was based on agriculture, trade, and tribute. They cultivated crops such as maize, beans, and squash using advanced agricultural techniques like chinampas, or floating gardens. The Aztecs also engaged in extensive trade networks, exchanging goods like cacao, textiles, and obsidian.

Culture

Aztec culture was rich in art, architecture, and literature. They built impressive structures such as the Templo Mayor in Tenochtitlan and created intricate stone carvings and codices. The Aztecs also had a complex calendar system and a rich tradition of oral and written literature.

Religion

Religion played a central role in Aztec life. They believed in a pantheon of gods and performed elaborate rituals and ceremonies, including human sacrifices, to appease them. The Aztec calendar was used to determine the timing of religious events and agricultural activities.

Conquest and Legacy

The Aztec Empire came to an end with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés in 1519. After a series of battles and alliances with rival indigenous groups, the Spanish captured Tenochtitlan in 1521, marking the fall of the Aztec Empire. The legacy of the Aztecs continues to influence Mexican culture and history.

See also

• Mesoamerica
• Inca Empire
• Maya civilization
• Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire