Aztec and Inca Empires: Society and Innovations

Triple Alliance

Coalition of three city-states led by Aztecs.

Incan Government

Strong centralized government.

Collective Culture

Incans fostered unity.

Tenochtitlán

Capital of the Aztec Empire, population 200,000-250,000.

Conquered People

Require to give a tribute. Local leaders still had control. Resistance equaled destruction and mass death

Codex Mendoza

Extensive Aztec historical writings and records.

Obsidian Tools

Sharp tools made from volcanic glass, used by Aztecs. Often paired with jade carving.

Mandatory Education

Education required for all Aztec children until age 14.

Huēyi Teōcalli

Great temple in Tenochtitlán dedicated to Aztec gods.

Chinampas

Floating gardens for agriculture in Aztec society. (Floating Bed Farming)

Mit'a

Labor tribute system in the Inca Empire.

Quipu

Incan system of record-keeping using knotted cords.

Machu Picchu

Incan royal estate and last stronghold against Spanish.

Human Sacrifice

Viewed as a necessity to continue life.

Cultural Relativism

Ethics/morals understood within cultural context.

Incan Expansion

Conquered through diplomacy and force

Medical Advancements

Aztecs developed herbal medicine and anatomical knowledge.

Steam Baths

Aztec innovation for treating illnesses.

Ball Game (Pok-a-tok)

Mayan game played to regulate natural cycles. Winners would be sacrificed.

Aztec sacrifice

Sacrifice to ensure the sun rose and set.