Mexica (Aztec) civilization

The Mexica, commonly known as the Aztec civilization, was a powerful Mesoamerican empire thriving from the 14th to 16th centuries in what is now central Mexico. They established Tenochtitlán, a magnificent capital city built on an island in Lake Texcoco, featuring complex aqueducts, temples, and marketplaces. The Aztecs were skilled warriors, farmers, and engineers, practicing advanced agriculture like chinampas (floating gardens). Their society was highly organized around religion, valuing human sacrifice to appease gods. The Aztec empire was eventually conquered by Spanish conquistadors in 1521, ending their rule but leaving a rich cultural legacy.