Aztec Empire Overview

Rise of the Aztec Empire

• The Aztec Empire emerged in central Mexico, gaining strength through warfare and tribute collection.
• The capital boasted a population exceeding 200,000, surpassing the largest cities in Spain and England during the same era.

Tribute

• Tribute refers to payments made to the Emperor, reflecting the economic control of the Aztec Empire over its conquered territories.

Social Structure of Aztec Culture

• The hierarchy consisted of:
  • Emperor
  • Nobles
  • Warriors and Priests
  • Merchants and Artisans
  • Farmers and Laborers
  • Slaves

Calpulli

• Calpulli were clans in Aztec society, evolving into residential groups responsible for land distribution and providing labor and warriors.

Altepetl

• An altepetl is a Meso-American city-state, serving as a fundamental political and social unit in Aztec civilization.

Tecuhtli

• The tecuhtli were provincial governors, overseeing territories within the Aztec Empire, although more context is needed regarding their specific roles.

Pipiltin

• The pipiltin, or noble class, ranked just below the tecuhtli and were distinguished by their attire, which included feathers and gold.
• Nobles held significant positions in the priesthood, military, and government, and were responsible for electing the king from within their ranks.

Macehualtin

• Macehualtin referred to the common people, encompassing farmers, warriors, and artisans.
• Over time, craftspeople and warriors gained higher social status compared to farmers.

Aztec Slaves

• Slaves occupied the lowest tier of Aztec society, but factors dictated their status, such as their offspring not being enslaved.
• Individuals could enter slavery voluntarily to settle debts or as punishment for crimes.
• Slaves had limited rights, such as being protected against mistreatment, the ability to purchase freedom, and consent required for sale by their owners.

Fun Facts

• "Calpulli" in Nahuatl translates to "big house."
• The Aztec nobility (pipiltin) traced their lineage to the Toltec people, enhancing their prestige.
• Merchants venerated Yacetecuhtli, their patron god, who was believed to protect them during travel.
• Social mobility could be achieved through advancements in the priesthood or military service.
• Escaped slaves reaching the royal palace would gain freedom, and they could own property, including other slaves.
• Traveling merchants served as spies for the Aztec government, although they were required to dress as commoners, not nobility.

Explore the key aspects of the Aztec Empire, including its rise to power, social structure, tribute system, and political organization. Learn about important terms such as calpulli and altepetl, which were vital to Aztec society. Test your knowledge on how these elements shaped the empire's strength and governance.