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#446 – Ed Barnhart: Maya, Aztec, Inca, and Lost Civilizations of South America

Lex Fridman Podcast

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War, Sacrifice, and Power: The Aztec Journey

This chapter explores the migration of the Aztecs from mythical Aztlan to the Valley of Mexico, focusing on their rise from mercenaries to a dominant force with the establishment of Tenochtitlan. It examines the intricate relationship between their warrior culture, ritualistic human sacrifices, and the cultural appreciation for beauty, illustrating the duality within their civilization. The narrative also contrasts the militaristic strategies of the Aztecs with those of the Inca Empire, shedding light on their psychological warfare tactics and societal structures.

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