Aztec Civilization

The Aztec civilization was a Mesoamerican culture that flourished in central Mexico in the post-classic period from 1300 to 1521. The Aztecs are known for their advanced agricultural practices, complex social structure, and impressive architectural achievements. They were also skilled in the arts, mathematics, and astronomy. The capital city of the Aztec Empire was Tenochtitlan, which is present-day Mexico City.

Key Aspects of Aztec Civilization

• Religion: The Aztecs had a polytheistic religion with a pantheon of deities, including Huitzilopochtli, the god of sun and war, and Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god.
• Social Structure: Aztec society was hierarchical, with the emperor at the top, followed by nobles, priests, warriors, merchants, and commoners.
• Architecture: The Aztecs built monumental structures, including pyramids, temples, and palaces, often adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
• Agriculture: They practiced advanced agricultural techniques such as chinampas, artificial islands used for farming, which allowed them to sustain a large population.
• Conflict and Conquest: The Aztecs expanded their empire through military conquest and demanded tribute from conquered peoples. However, this expansion also led to resentment and resistance from subjugated groups.

Study Guide

To understand the Aztec civilization in more depth, consider the following study topics:

1. Religious Beliefs and Rituals: Explore the mythology and religious practices of the Aztecs, including human sacrifice and the role of priests.
2. Art and Architecture: Examine the artistic and architectural achievements of the Aztecs, such as the Templo Mayor and the intricate stone carvings.
3. Economy and Trade: Investigate the Aztec economy, trade networks, and the use of cacao beans as currency.
4. Conquest and Expansion: Analyze the methods used by the Aztecs to expand their empire and the impact of this expansion on neighboring civilizations.
5. Spanish Conquest: Study the events and consequences of the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire, including the role of Hernán Cortés and the fall of Tenochtitlan.

By exploring these topics, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the Aztec civilization and its significance in world history.