America: Significant States Flashcards
Mexica (Aztecs)
The Mexica (Aztecs) was a powerful Mesoamerican civilization that rose to prominence between 1200 and 1750. During this time, the Mexica established the Triple Alliance, a powerful confederation of three city-states that ruled much of central Mexico. They constructed grand temples and monuments and developed an impressive system of governance, law, and economics. The Mexica were also highly skilled warriors, and their military campaigns allowed them to conquer and control a large swath of Central America. Their culture, art, and architecture had a great influence on the region, and many of their traditions and customs still remain today. The Mexica were eventually conquered by the Spanish in 1521, but their legacy still lives on in modern Mexico.
Inca
The Inca Empire was an ancient South American civilization that rose to power in the Andean region around 1200 CE and lasted until it was conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century. At its height, the Inca Empire spanned a wide area, stretching from modern-day Ecuador to central Chile. The Inca Empire was a highly organized society that was characterized by a strong central government led by an emperor, a complex system of government, and a strong economy based on agricultural production. The Inca also developed many impressive architectural, engineering, and artistic achievements, including a sophisticated road system, a successful system of taxation, and beautiful temples and monuments. Although the Inca were eventually defeated by the Spanish, their legacy is still visible today in many parts of South America.
Viceroyalty of New Spain
The Viceroyalty of New Spain was the name given to a Spanish colonial administrative district that existed from 1535 to 1821. It encompassed a territory that included present-day Mexico, Central America, and parts of the Southwestern United States. It was established to serve as the administrative center of Spanish-held lands in the Americas. During the Viceroyalty’s existence, it was ruled by a series of viceroys who were appointed to serve as the king’s representatives in the area. During its existence, the Viceroyalty of New Spain was considered one of the most prosperous and powerful of the Spanish colonies. It was home to a diverse population of indigenous peoples, Europeans, and Africans. The Viceroyalty was responsible for the establishment of the first universities in the Americas, as well as the introduction of the printing press and the first newspaper. It also saw the flourishing of the arts, sciences, and a vibrant trade between Europe, America, and Asia. The Viceroyalty of New Spain was ultimately dissolved in 1821 when Mexico declared its independence from Spain. After the dissolution, the area was divided into the Mexican Empire and the Republic of Central America.
British North America
During the period from 1200 to 1750, British North America underwent a period of significant cultural and political change. The initial inhabitants of the region were Native Americans, whose cultures shifted and evolved as they interacted with European settlers. With the arrival of Europeans, the region experienced a period of colonization and exploitation, with the British eventually claiming the region as their own. The development of the fur trade, military posts, and settlements throughout the region helped to shape the political and economic landscape of British North America. The French, Dutch, and Spanish also had a presence in the region and their respective settlements were important to the development of the region during this time. Various wars were fought between European powers for control of the region, eventually resulting in the British claiming most of the land and establishing it as British North America. The period was marked by increasing religious, social, and cultural diversity, as well as the introduction of new technologies and practices
