Mexica (Aztec Empire)
Definition
The Aztec Empire, also known as the Mexica, was a Mesoamerican culture that flourished in central Mexico from 1300 until 1521 when it was conquered by Spanish invaders. They are known for their complex social, political and religious structures.
Analogy
Think of the Aztecs like an intricate puzzle. Each piece - whether it's their religion, politics or social structure - fits together to create a complete picture of their civilization.
Related terms
Tenochtitlan: The capital city of the Aztec empire located on an island in Lake Texcoco in modern-day Mexico City.
Nahuatl: The language spoken by the Aztecs and still used today by some indigenous people in Mexico.
Quetzalcoatl: A feathered serpent deity worshipped by the Aztecs and other Mesoamerican cultures.
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