Why did the Aztecs settle in the Vallet of Mexico

Answer 1

The Aztecs settled in the Valley of Mexico for several reasons:

1. Geographic Location: The Valley of Mexico had a favorable geographic location with a mild climate, fertile soil, and a network of lakes and rivers. This made it ideal for agricultural activities, allowing the Aztecs to grow crops such as maize, beans, and squash.

2. Natural Resources: The valley was rich in natural resources, including various minerals like obsidian, which the Aztecs used for making tools and weapons. The lakes and rivers also provided fish and water for irrigation.

3. Defensibility: The Valley of Mexico was surrounded by mountains and had limited access points, which made it relatively easy to defend against potential invaders. The Aztecs built their capital city of Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco, further enhancing its natural defenses.

4. Prophecy and Religious Beliefs: According to Aztec mythology, their main god Huitzilopochtli had prophesied that they would find their permanent home in a place where an eagle would be perched on a cactus, devouring a snake. They saw this prophetic sign on an island in Lake Texcoco, which led them to settle there and establish Tenochtitlan.

5. Trade and Commerce: The Valley of Mexico was a crossroads for various trade routes, providing the Aztecs with access to valuable resources and goods from other regions. Their central location made them a hub for regional trade and contributed to the growth of their economy and political influence.

6. Mythical and Historical Significance: The Valley of Mexico was believed to be the center of the world by the Aztecs. It was associated with their creation myth and considered the place where their ancestors originated. Settling there allowed them to reconnect with their ancestral homeland and establish a powerful empire.