The Aztecs were a powerful Mesoamerican civilization that flourished in central Mexico between the 14th and early 16th centuries, known for their capital city Tenochtitlán, complex social organization, and rich cultural traditions.

🌍 Origins & History

• The Aztecs (also called Mexica) migrated from a legendary homeland called Aztlán to central Mexico around the 13th century.
• In 1427, they formed the Triple Alliance between Tenochtitlán, Tetzcoco, and Tlacopan, creating the Aztec Empire.
• By the early 16th century, the empire controlled much of northern Mesoamerica through tribute and warfare.
• The empire fell in 1521 after the Spanish conquest led by Hernán Cortés, aided by indigenous allies.

🏛 Society & Culture

• Language: Nahuatl, still spoken today.
• Religion: Polytheistic, with gods like Huitzilopochtli (war/sun) and Quetzalcoatl (wisdom). Rituals included offerings and human sacrifice.
• Social Structure: Nobles, priests, warriors, merchants, and commoners formed a stratified society.
• Economy: Based on agriculture (chinampas—floating gardens), tribute, and trade.
• Art & Architecture: Monumental temples (Templo Mayor), codices, and intricate stone and featherwork.

⚔️ Significance

• The Aztecs were masters of agriculture, engineering, and urban planning, building one of the largest cities of its time—Tenochtitlán, with an estimated population of 200,000.
• Their empire was both feared and admired, leaving a lasting legacy in Mexican identity, language, and cultural symbolism.

In short: The Aztecs were a dominant Mesoamerican civilization, blending military power, religious ritual, and advanced urban culture, whose legacy continues to shape Mexico today.