Image for Bernardino de Sahagún (anthropologist)

Bernardino de Sahagún (anthropologist)

Bernardino de Sahagún was a 16th-century Spanish Franciscan friar and anthropologist who is best known for his comprehensive study of Aztec culture and society in what is now Mexico. He dedicated his life to documenting indigenous life, including their beliefs, customs, and languages, by collaborating with native informants. His most famous work, the "Florentine Codex," combines text and illustrations, providing invaluable insights into pre-Columbian civilization. Sahagún's efforts are crucial for understanding Aztec history and the impact of European colonization on indigenous peoples. His work remains a foundational reference in anthropology and history.