What does the Nahuatl word aztēcatl mean?
The Nahuatl word aztēcatl means people from Aztlan, a mythical place of origin toward the north. Migration stories tell how the Mexica tribe traveled with other tribes including the Tlaxcalteca and Tepaneca.
Questions about Aztecs
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did the Mexica found Tenochtitlan on Lake Texcoco?
The Mexica founded Tenochtitlan on a small swampy island in Lake Texcoco in 1325 after seeing an eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus eating a snake. Acamapichtli was elected as the first Huey Tlatoani of Tenochtitlan in 1376.
Who became the last independent tlatoani of the Aztec Empire?
Cuauhtémoc became the last independent tlatoani continuing fierce defense until his capture on the 13th of August 1521 marking the beginning of Spanish hegemony. Spaniards held Cuauhtémoc captive until tortured and executed during expedition to Honduras in 1525.
How many crops could chinampas yield annually for Aztec society?
Chinampas yielded seven crops annually by converting shallow waters into highly fertile gardens cultivated year-round. Estimates suggest ten square kilometers of chinampas could feed 180,000 people.
Which four main deities were worshipped in the Great Temple of Tenochtitlan?
Four main deities were Tlaloc, Huitzilopochtli, Quetzalcoatl, and Tezcatlipoca. The Great Temple had two shrines on top dedicated to Tlaloc and Huitzilopochtli.