Tenochtitlan and the Aztec Empire

Introduction

• Tenochtitlan was the capital of the Aztec Empire.
• Described by Bernal Díaz de Castillo as a city of astonishing beauty built on water.
• Governed over 5 million people, situated in the middle of Lake Texcoco.
• Notable structures included the market and the Great Temple (Templo Mayor).
• Home to an estimated 200,000 farmers, artisans, merchants, soldiers, and priests.

Sources and Skepticism

• Knowledge of Aztecs comes from Spanish codices often biased by cultural conflict.
• Important to read historical accounts with skepticism due to conflicting narratives.

Mesoamerican Origins

• Theories on population origins:
  • Bering Land Bridge from Asia to Alaska.
  • Pacific coastal migration along the "Kelp Highway".
• Mesoamerica identity started forming around 2000 BCE.

Early Mesoamerican Civilization

• Initially consisted of hunter-gatherers and fishermen until about 10,000 BCE.
• Transitioned from large meat consumption to small insects and bugs by 4000 BCE.
• Maize became a primary food source by 2000 BCE.

Mayan Civilization

• Early Maya civilization dates to about 18,000 BCE.
• At peak, Mayans had a population between 2 million to 10 million people.
• Heavily religious, worshipped several deities.
• The "Popol Vuh" is a Mayan creation story involving maize.

Teotihuacan

• One of the greatest early Mesoamerican cities.
• Influence spread across Mesoamerica.
• Theories suggest its creation was a collaborative effort of different cultures or by Toltecs.
• Known as "place of the gods," important religious center.
• Decline possibly due to fire from war or rebellion.

Toltecs and Tula

• Tula, established by Topitzen Quetzalcoatl, was important for trade.
• Known for religious traditions, human sacrifices, and conquest.
• Decline due to droughts and warfare.

Aztec Migration and Society

• Nahuatl language and the name "Aztec" originate from "Aztlan."
• Migration from Aztlan to Chapultepec around 1065 CE.
• Aztecs were seen as outsiders due to aggressive practices.
• Skilled warriors, often recruited as mercenaries.

Establishment of Tenochtitlan

• Founded on a prophetic sign involving an eagle, a cactus, and a snake.
• Grew to become a powerful city through conquest and tribute.
• Aztec rulers expanded their empire until their destruction by Hernan Cortes.

Conclusion

• Tenochtitlan and the Aztec Empire represented a dominant force in Mesoamerica.
• Their story is marked by impressive achievements and eventual downfall due to Spanish conquest.