Historical Encyclopedia
The Aztecs were one of the most well-known civilizations of ancient Mexico, existing from the 14th to the 16th centuries. Their empire, covering much of modern-day Mexico, was renowned for its achievements in architecture, science, religion, and art.
The Aztecs, or Mexica, emerged in the area of Lake Texcoco, where they established their capital — Tenochtitlan, in 1325. They are believed to have descended from the Nahua people, who migrated from the northern regions of Mexico.
The Aztec religion was polytheistic, and they worshipped numerous gods, each responsible for different aspects of life. The main deities included:
The Aztecs believed that to maintain cosmic order, sacrifices, including human ones, were necessary. These rituals were often performed at magnificent temples, such as the Great Temple in Tenochtitlan.
Aztec society was strictly hierarchical. At the top was the ruler (Moctezuma), followed by the nobility, priests, merchants, and farmers. Each of these layers had its rights and responsibilities.
The Aztecs spoke Nahuatl, and they had their writing system consisting of pictograms and hieroglyphs. This allowed them to keep records of events, conduct trade, and create literary works.
The Aztec economy was based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of corn, beans, and peppers. They used a system called "chinampa" — a labor-for-land exchange. In addition, the Aztecs actively traded with neighboring tribes, creating a powerful trade network.
The Aztecs are known for their magnificent architectural structures. Temples and pyramids, such as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacan, impress with their size and intricate construction. Aztec art was also developed: they created beautiful items from ceramics, textiles, and jewelry.
The Aztec Empire declined after the arrival of Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés in 1519. In 1521, after a two-year siege, Tenochtitlan was captured, bringing an end to the Aztec civilization. The Spaniards also brought diseases that had a devastating impact on the local population.
Despite the fall of the empire, the legacy of the Aztecs continues to live on. Their culture, language, and traditions have significantly influenced modern Mexican society. Many traditions, such as the celebration of the Day of the Dead, have roots in Aztec culture.
The Aztecs represent a unique and complex civilization that made significant contributions to the history of humanity. Their achievements in architecture, art, and science continue to inspire researchers and people around the world.