Aztec empire definition ap world history
All About Mexica Tribute Lists for AP World History
Mexica tribute lists are an illustrative example in the Empires: Administration topic of Unit 3 of AP World History. Read more about the Mexica tribute lists below!
The Mexica, also known as the Aztecs, created a highly organized and systematic tribute system that formed the backbone of their economic administration. Tribute lists, meticulously recorded by Aztec officials, provided a comprehensive record of the diverse goods and services rendered by subject regions and vassal states to the imperial capital of Tenochtitlan. These tribute lists not only facilitated economic governance but also served as a symbol of imperial power and control within the Aztec Empire.
Tribute as a Symbol of Imperial Supremacy
The Mexica Tribute System was a manifestation of the tribute and taxation practices employed by the Aztecs to maintain control over their vast empire. Tribute, which included a wide array of goods such as agricultural products, textiles, precious metals, and artisanal crafts, served as both a demonstration of the empire’s economic dominance and a means of redistributing wealth to support the ruling elite.
Documenta
The Aztec Empire for Unit 1 of AP World History
Do you need to learn about the Aztec Empire for AP World History? Maybe you are studying the Mexica. What is the difference between the Mexica and the Aztecs? They are two names for the same people. Whether you are studying the Mexica or the Aztecs, you will learn everything you need to know for the AP World History exam here!
You can read and watch videos on the Aztec Empire using Google Slides, or you can scroll down to read on the website.
Aztec or Mexica?
The term “Aztecs” is derived from the word “Aztlan,” which is believed to be the mythical homeland of the Mexica people. The Mexica, a Nahuatl-speaking indigenous group, migrated from Aztlan to the Valley of Mexico in the 13th century. Over time, they established their capital, Tenochtitlan, on an island in the middle of Lake Texcoco. The Mexica civilization grew to become a dominant force in Mesoamerica, forming the Aztec Empire.
The use of the term “Aztecs” to describe the Mexica people is largely a result of historical convention and European influence. When the Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, encountered the Mexica civilization in the early 16th c
key term - Aztec Empire
Definition
The Aztec Empire was a powerful Mesoamerican civilization that flourished in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th centuries, known for its rich culture, complex social structure, and impressive architectural achievements. It was characterized by a tribute system, a polytheistic religion, and an expansive trade network, playing a crucial role in the development of pre-Columbian America.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
The Aztec Empire reached its peak around the early 16th century before the Spanish conquest led by Hernán Cortés in 1519.
The society was organized into a hierarchy with an emperor at the top, followed by nobles, priests, commoners, and slaves.
The Aztecs practiced extensive agriculture using chinampas, which were floating gardens that allowed for year-round farming.
Their religious beliefs were deeply intertwined with daily life and included numerous gods; human sacrifice was often performed to appease these deities.
The empire was known for its vast trade networks that connected various regions, enabling the exchange of goods such as cacao, textiles, and precious stones.
Review Questions
How did the trib
AP World History Chapter 11 Flashcards
793326956
Teotihuacan
first major metropolis in Mesoamerica, collapsed around 800 CE. It is most remembered for the gigantic "pyramid of the sun".; The most significant pre-Columbian Meso-american city.; its collapse along with the abandonment of Mayan cities in 8th century signaled a significant political and cultural change in Mesoamerica
0
793326957
Toltecs
Powerful postclassic empire in central Mexico (900-1168 C.E.). It influenced much of Mesoamerica. Aztecs claimed ties to this earlier civilization.; est. capital at Tula in 968; strong militaristic ethnic; adopted sedentary lifestyle; cult of sacrifice and war; aztecs thought of them as the givers of civilization
1
793326958
Aztecs
(1200-1521) 1300, they settled in the valley of Mexico. Grew corn. Engaged in frequent warfare to conquer others of the region. Worshipped many gods (polytheistic). Believed the sun god needed human blood to continue his journeys across the sky. Practiced human sacrifices and those sacrificed were captured warriors from other tribes and those who volunteered for the honor.
2
793326959
Topiltzin
Religious leader and reformer of the Tolt