How did the aztecs make their civilization so big

Answer 1

The Aztecs were able to make their civilization grow and become so big through several factors:

1. Military prowess: The Aztecs were skilled warriors and expanded their empire through military conquest. They used powerful weapons, such as the macuahuitl (a wooden sword with obsidian blades) and atlatl (a spear-throwing device), to defeat their enemies and capture new territories. They demanded tribute from conquered peoples, which helped to increase their wealth and power.

2. Political organization: The Aztecs had a highly organized political structure. They built alliances with other city-states through diplomatic and trade relations, persuading them to join their empire peacefully. They established a system of governance where local rulers, known as tlatoani, were allowed to retain some power but had to pledge their loyalty to the Aztec emperor.

3. Economic system: The Aztecs developed a complex economic system, which included agriculture, trade, and tribute. They constructed chinampas, artificial islands made of reclaimed land, to increase agricultural productivity and feed their growing population. The Aztecs were also skilled traders and participated in long-distance trade networks throughout Mesoamerica, acquiring resources and goods from distant regions.

4. Infrastructure and urban planning: The Aztecs built impressive infrastructure, including causeways, bridges, and aqueducts, which facilitated communication, transportation, and trade. They developed elaborate urban planning with their capital city, Tenochtitlan, being a highly structured city with canals, temples, and markets. This efficient urban design enabled the administration and efficient functioning of their empire.

5. Religion and social organization: Religion played a significant role in the Aztec civilization. The Aztecs believed they were chosen by the gods to rule, which provided a strong sense of unity and purpose. Their religious practices, including ritual sacrifices, helped to establish and maintain social order. The Aztecs also organized their society hierarchically, with the nobility and priests holding significant positions of power and authority.

Overall, a combination of military strength, effective political organization, economic growth, infrastructure development, and cultural cohesion allowed the Aztecs to build a large and powerful civilization.