Aztec (Mexica)

The Aztec, or Mexica, were a Mesoamerican civilization that thrived in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century. They built a powerful empire known for its advanced architecture, including the capital city of Tenochtitlan, situated on Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs were skilled farmers, warriors, and traders, with a rich culture that included a complex religion featuring numerous gods. They practiced extensive human sacrifices as religious offerings. Their civilization fell to Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, in 1521, marking a significant shift in history and the beginning of colonialism in the Americas.