Ancient Civilisations The Aztecs
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Feb 28, 2025 Discover the multifaceted world of the Aztecs, from their advanced agricultural innovations like chinampas to their complex political systems driven by elite councils. Explore the rise of Itzcoat and the formation of the Triple Alliance amidst civil strife. Learn about the misconceptions surrounding Hernán Cortés's conquest and the pivotal role of Doña Marina in the transformation of Aztec identity. Lastly, delve into the enduring legacy of this civilization in modern Mexico, showcasing the resilience of indigenous culture today.
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Aztecs as Ambitious Newcomers
- The Aztecs were newcomers and immigrants in central Mexico with the best lands already taken.
- Their initial underdog status drove them to become skilled warriors and mercenaries, shaping their identity.
Founding Myth and Practicality
- The Aztecs founded Tenochtitlan on an island where they saw an eagle perched on a cactus eating a snake.
- The location was ideal due to its uninhabited status and resources, not just because of the myth.
Complex Religion and Calendars
- Aztec religion featured many gods, with Huitzilopochtli as the patron god.
- Their dual calendar system was complex, combining solar and sacred cycles tied to broader cosmology.