Aztec Civilization: Origins, City, Religion, and Conquest

Where did the Aztecs come from and what is their origin story?

The Aztecs, also called the Mexica, came to the Valley of Mexico, possibly from the north. According to their myth, they came from Aztlán and passed through Chicomoztoc, the “Place of Seven Caves,” where different tribes emerged. Their god told them to settle where they saw an eagle on a cactus eating a snake. They found this sign on an island in Lake Texcoco and built Tenochtitlan there.

Why did the Aztecs practice human sacrifice? How did they sacrifice children?

They believed sacrifice was necessary to keep the sun and universe in balance. They offered human hearts to feed the sun god. Children were sacrificed to rain gods, and their tears were believed to bring rain. This was part of their religious beliefs.

Where was Tenochtitlan and how was it built?

Tenochtitlan was built on an island in Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs created land by driving stakes into the lakebed, weaving reeds, and filling them with mud. They also built chinampas, or floating gardens, for farming. Had causeways

Describe Tenochtitlan and how it compared to European cities.

Tenochtitlan was a large, advanced city, bigger than many European cities like Rome. It had a grid layout, was very clean, and had large markets. Skilled craftsmen built impressive structures without using wheels.

How was Tenochtitlan organized and how did it run?

The city had canals and people traveled by canoe. It was ruled by an emperor and had different social classes. The Aztecs also had advanced medicine and knowledge.

Describe Aztec sacrifice ceremonies and beliefs. What did they do and why?

Ceremonies were held at temple pyramids with music and rituals. Warriors captured enemies for sacrifice, and priests performed the rituals. They believed sacrifices were needed to please the gods and maintain balance in the universe. Every 52 years, they performed the New Fire Ceremony, where all fires were extinguished and a new fire was lit to ensure the sun would rise again and the world would continue.

How did a small number of Spaniards conquer the Aztec Empire?

The Spanish, led by Hernán Cortés, used advanced weapons and horses, formed alliances with other tribes, and benefited from diseases like smallpox that weakened the Aztecs.

How was Mexico City built on Tenochtitlan?

The Spanish destroyed Tenochtitlan and built Mexico City on top of its ruins, including churches over temples. It became the capital of New Spain.