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Questions and Answers
What year was Tenochtitlan founded as the capital of the Aztec Empire?
Which event marked the conquest of the Aztecs and the fall of Tenochtitlan?
What sign did the Aztecs see that led them to build their settlement?
What was a primary transportation method used by the Aztecs to navigate their canals?
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How many groups of days were in the Aztec calendar's ritual cycle?
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What annual event did the Aztecs celebrate every 52 years?
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What aspect of Aztec culture was significantly influenced by their gods?
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What was a common practice by the Aztecs to appease their gods?
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What was unique about the Aztec civil calendar?
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Which of the following correctly describes the Aztecs' reputation?
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Study Notes
Aztec Civilization Overview
- Established Tenochtitlan, present-day Mexico City, in 1325 A.D.
- Tenochtitlan served as the capital and center of the Aztec Empire until the Spanish conquest in 1520 by Hernan Cortes.
Foundation and Significance of Tenochtitlan
- The city was built after the Aztecs observed an eagle perched on a cactus, viewed as a divine sign, on marshy land by Lake Texcoco.
- Early infrastructure included causeways and canals, enhancing transportation to and from the city.
Warfare and Sacrificial Practices
- The Aztecs are recognized for their militaristic expansion through aggressive warfare.
- They had a notorious reputation for conducting human sacrifices, often involving heart removal, as rituals to honor their numerous deities.
Transportation Methods
- Developed dugout canoes for transportation across the valley's canals, lakes, and waterways, aiding in trade and movement of goods.
Aztec Calendar System
- Comprised of a 260-day ritual cycle and a 365-day civil cycle, showcasing their advanced astronomy.
- The calendar was divided into groups of 20 days, known as trecenas, with each day associated with a unique name, symbol, deity, and augury.
- Designated specific days for religious ceremonies and festivals, essential for religious and agricultural life.
Cycle and Celebration
- The ritual and civil calendar cycles aligned every 52 years, a momentous event called the Binding Up of the Years, celebrated through the New Fire Ceremony.
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Description
Explore the fascinating history of the Aztec civilization, focusing on the establishment of their capital, Tenochtitlan, in 1325 A.D. Learn about the significance of the eagle and cactus symbol that guided their settlement. This quiz covers key events leading up to the Spanish conquest in 1520.
