Module 9 Aztecs Flashcards
What area is known as Mesoamerica?
The area that stretches from the Rio Grande to Panama
Why is Mesoamerica referred to as ‘the Cradle of the Americas’?
Because it was here that the Western Hemisphere’s first technologically advanced civilizations appeared
Which civilizations are mentioned as part of Mesoamerica?
- Aztec Empire
- Maya civilization
- Inca civilization
What is the proper name for the civilization commonly referred to as the Aztecs?
Mexica
When did the Mexica people settle near Lake Texcoco?
In 1248
What was the name of the city built by the Aztecs in 1325?
Tenochtitlan
What geographical feature protected Tenochtitlan from military attacks?
Its marshy location in the middle of Lake Texcoco
What significant structure was located at the heart of Tenochtitlan?
Templo Mayor or Great Temple
What was the height of the Templo Mayor?
100 feet
Which city is described as one of the most advanced cities of the ancient world?
Teotihuacan
What social classes existed in Aztec society?
- Pipiltin (nobles)
- Macehualtin (commoners)
Who was the first king of the Aztec Empire?
Acamapichtli
What role did education play in Aztec society?
Education was granted to many children regardless of social status, but split between noble and commoner training as they matured
What was the basic governing unit of the Aztec Empire?
Calpulli
What was the title of the ruler of Tenochtitlan?
Huey tlatcani (great speaker)
True or False: Slavery in the Aztec Empire was hereditary.
False
What was the primary reason for Aztec human sacrifices?
To please the gods and prevent disaster
Who was Quetzalcoatl in Aztec mythology?
A creator deity responsible for the creation of humans
What role did Huitzilopochtli serve in Aztec religion?
He was a god of sun and war and led the Aztec people to Tenochtitlan
What contributed to the fall of the Aztec Empire?
- Human sacrifices
- Disease
- Spanish conquest
What disease significantly affected the Aztec population after the arrival of the Spanish?
Smallpox
Fill in the blank: The Aztecs believed that every ______ years, the gods needed to be strengthened to avert disaster.
fifty-two
What was the fate of human sacrifice victims in Tenochtitlan?
Their hearts were cut out atop Templo Mayor and bodies thrown down
What was one of the rewards for Aztec warriors capturing prisoners?
Land
