Basic Aztec and Inca Civilization Notes

Aztecs

A Mesoamerican civilization that migrated to Lake Texcoco and founded Tenochtitlan in 1325.

Women's Role

In Aztec society, women primarily managed the household and performed labor, but had some political rights and could inherit property.

Warrior Class

A social class in Aztec society that held significant power and status.

Tenochtitlan

The capital city of the Aztec Empire, built on an island in Lake Texcoco, which became a mega city.

Great Speaker

The ruler of Tenochtitlan, considered an emperor and a living god, chosen from the nobility.

Tribute System

A system where conquered peoples were required to pay tribute in the form of gold, cotton, or food to the Aztecs.

Polytheism

The belief in multiple deities, which was central to both Aztec and Inca religions.

Human Sacrifice

A religious practice among the Aztecs, where approximately 10,000 individuals were sacrificed annually to appease their gods.

Chinampas

Floating gardens created by the Aztecs to enhance agricultural production and feed their population.

Cacao Beans

Used as currency in the Aztec economy, alongside gold, with bartering being common.

Incas

A civilization founded by Quechua-speaking clans near Cuzco around 1350, known for their extensive empire.

Bureaucracy

The administrative system developed by the Incas, run by nobles to manage their divided empire.

Mita System

A form of forced labor in Inca society, where individuals worked for a period but could return to their lives afterward.

Waru Waru Farming

An agricultural technique used by the Incas involving irrigation canals to enhance crop production.