THE AZTECS

LOCATION

• The Aztecs lived in the Mexican Desert on Lake Texcoco

RELIGION

• The God of Sun and Warfare, Huitzilpochtli told them to create their own city.
• They had over 1,000 Gods
• Many temples and religious structures.
• They performed sacrifices, many of which were for the sun God.

POLITICAL

• Joined with other cities-Texcoco and Tlacopan to form the Triple Alliance.
• Warriors dressed as Eagles to honor the Sun God.
• Priests wanted war so that they could capture prisoners to sacrifice.

SOCIAL

• Military leaders, Government Officials, and Priests were upper class.
• Emperor was the highest.
• Government used merchants as spies.
• Based power on military conquests.
• Common class: merchants, soldiers, and farmers. A slave class existed as well.

TENOCHTITLÁN

• Had a population between 200,000 and 400,00 people.
• Had roads connecting the island to the mainland.
• Had canals for roadways.
• At the center of the city was a walled complex filled with palaces, temples, and government buildings.
• Main structure was the Great Temple, to honor the sun and rain gods. It was the religious center.