Explore the Aztec Empire's history, from its 15th-century dominance in central Mexico to its collapse in 1521. Learn about their social hierarchy, architectural feats, and the impact of Spanish conquest. The Aztecs' advanced calendars, agriculture, and the city of Tenochtitlan reflect their significant contributions to human civilization.
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The Aztecs originated from Aztlan and migrated to the Valley of Mexico, where they founded their capital, Tenochtitlan
Unification of Mesoamerican city-states
The Aztec Triple Alliance was formed in 1428, bringing together various Mesoamerican city-states under a single political framework
Military conquest and strategic alliances
The Aztecs expanded their empire through a combination of military conquest and strategic alliances
Tenochtitlan became a thriving metropolis with a population of 200,000 at its peak, rivaling European cities of the era
Aztec society was highly structured, with a clear hierarchy that included the emperor, nobility, commoners, serfs, and slaves
Human sacrifice and religious practices
The Aztecs practiced human sacrifice as a means to appease their deities, with an estimated thousands of individuals sacrificed annually
Impressive architectural works
The Aztecs are celebrated for their impressive architectural works, including towering pyramids and temples
Engineering skills in agriculture
The Aztecs demonstrated remarkable engineering skills, particularly in agriculture, with the development of chinampas, or floating gardens
Elaborate calendar system
The Aztecs utilized two primary calendars, the Tonalpohualli and Xiuhpohualli, reflecting their advanced knowledge of astronomy and agricultural practices
The Aztec Empire's downfall began with the arrival of Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes in 1519
Strategic alliances and internal political strife
Cortes formed strategic alliances with indigenous groups opposed to Aztec rule, contributing to the empire's collapse
Impact of European diseases
The catastrophic impact of smallpox and other European diseases, to which the Aztecs had no immunity, also contributed to the empire's downfall
The Aztecs have left a profound legacy, with their ruins, calendar systems, and cultural artifacts providing valuable insights into their society and achievements
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Aztec Empire population size and peak era
Approximately 11 million people; flourished in 15th century
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Origin and migration of the Aztecs
Originated from Aztlan; migrated to Valley of Mexico
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Consequence of Spanish conquest on Aztecs
Aztec Empire fell; legacy of culture and knowledge persists
