Aztec Empire

What was the name of the Aztec capital city?

Tenochtitlán

Who was the ruler of the Aztec Empire?

The Huey Tlatoani (“Great Speaker”); at the time of Spanish arrival, this was Moctezuma II.

How was Aztec society structured?

It was hierarchical, with nobles (pipiltin), commoners (macehualtin), serfs, and slaves.

What role did the Calpulli play in Aztec society?

They were community groups/clans that shared land and responsibilities — the basic units of society.

What was the Triple Alliance?

The political alliance between Tenochtitlán, Texcoco, and Tlacopan — it formed the basis of Aztec power.

How did the Aztecs build their empire?

Through military conquest and demanding tribute from conquered peoples.

What was the purpose of tribute in the Aztec Empire?

Tribute supported the empire’s economy and showed dominance over other city-states.

What were chinampas?

Man-made floating gardens that allowed farming on Lake Texcoco — an innovation that supported a large population.

What key crops did the Aztecs grow?

Maize, beans, squash, chilies, and cacao.

What was used as money in the Aztec Empire?

Cacao beans and cotton cloth (not coins).

What was the main religion of the Aztecs?

A polytheistic religion with many gods linked to nature, war, and agriculture.

Who was Huitzilopochtli?

The Aztec god of the sun and war, considered the patron of Tenochtitlán.

Why was human sacrifice important in Aztec religion?

They believed it fed the gods and kept the sun rising.

What did the Aztecs believe would happen if they stopped sacrificing?

The world would end — the sun would no longer rise.

What engineering feat was used to supply water to Tenochtitlán?

An aqueduct system brought fresh water from springs.

Why was Tenochtitlán considered a remarkable city?

It was a large, advanced city built on a lake, with canals, causeways, markets, temples, and palaces.