Using the trends of American civilizations before contact with European colonizers, such as their rise, technology, contact, and relationships, predict what the state of the Aztec and Inca civilizations might have been if Europeans had not invaded. Use the history you learned about previous American civilizations to support your theory. Would they have encountered the same fate as those who came before them? Or would they have gone beyond their predecessors? Ensure that you are reviewing the state of both civilizations before the Spanish had toppled their empires.

Answer 1

If Europeans had not invaded, it is likely that the Aztec and Inca civilizations would have continued to thrive and potentially even surpass their predecessors in terms of development and influence within the Americas.

The Aztec civilization, at the time of European contact, was at the peak of its power. The empire had established a complex and highly organized society with a centralized government, extensive agricultural systems, and a sophisticated trading network. The Aztecs had also made significant advancements in architecture, engineering, and mathematics. They had constructed magnificent cities, such as their capital, Tenochtitlan, which was one of the largest and most populous cities in the world at that time.

Considering these achievements and the Aztecs' ability to adapt and expand their empire through both military conquest and diplomacy, it is reasonable to assume that their civilization would have continued to flourish. They were known for their ability to incorporate conquered peoples into their empire and extract tribute from them. With their efficient administration and agricultural practices, the Aztecs would have likely sustained their population growth and continued to advance technologically.

The Inca civilization, similarly, had reached great heights before European intervention. They had established an empire stretching along the Andes Mountains, encompassing vast territories from modern-day Ecuador to Chile. The Incas had constructed an extensive road system and impressive agricultural terraces, enabling them to efficiently govern and trade within their empire. Their capital, Cusco, was a testament to their advanced architectural skills and urban planning.

The Incas had a strong centralized government and a remarkable administrative system that allowed them to manage their diverse territories effectively. They had also developed a sophisticated agricultural system, including terracing and irrigation, which allowed them to grow crops in the high-altitude regions of the Andes. This promoted population growth, trade, and cultural exchange within the empire.

Considering the Incas' ability to govern such a vast empire and their advancements in infrastructure and agriculture, it is plausible that they would have continued to thrive. They may have further expanded their territories, establishing stronger ties with neighboring civilizations and potentially even exploring further regions. Their organizational skills and efficient management would likely have enabled them to adapt to changing circumstances and challenges.

However, it is important to note that the history of American civilizations before European contact was not a linear progression of development. There were internal conflicts, rivalries, and external pressures that impacted the rise and fall of civilizations. These factors could have potentially influenced the trajectory of the Aztec and Inca civilizations.

Nonetheless, considering the achievements, advancements, and adaptability of the Aztec and Inca civilizations, it is reasonable to believe that they would have continued to flourish and potentially even surpass their predecessors if Europeans had not invaded. They had established strong foundations, showed resilience in the face of challenges, and demonstrated their ability to adapt and grow.