Who+They+Are

Aztecs The Aztecs were an American Indian people who ruled a mighty empire in Mexico during the 1400's and early 1500's. The Aztecs had one of the most advanced civilizations in the America. They built cities as large and complex as any in Europe at that time. They also practiced a remarkable religion that affected every part of their lives. To worship their gods, the Aztec developed a sophisticated ritual system, built towering temples, and created huge sculptures. They held impressive religious ceremonies featuring dancing, musical performances, and the bloody sacrifices of animals and human beings. The name Aztec is also commonly applied to the people who founded the city of Tenochtitlan. It stood on the site of present-day Mexico City and, according to legend, was established in 1325. Its people referred to themselves by the names Colhua-Mexica, Mexica, and Tenochca. In the 1400's, the city and its allies conquered many groups in central and southern Mexico, forming the Aztec Empire. Tenochtitlan became the capital. The empire was destroyed by the Spaniards, who conquered Tenochtitlan in 1521. But the Aztec left a lasting mark on Mexican culture. Aztec also refers to this larger group of Indians who made up the empire.