The Flower Wars

The Flower Wars were ritualistic battles fought by the Aztec Empire and neighboring city-states during the late post-classic Mesoamerican period. These conflicts, which took place primarily from the 15th to the 16th centuries, served a dual purpose: to capture enemies for sacrifice and to maintain political alliances. Unlike traditional warfare, the Flower Wars emphasized spectacle and were often staged with predetermined outcomes. They provided a way for warriors to demonstrate their valor while ensuring a supply of captives for religious ceremonies, reflecting the complex interplay of warfare, religion, and politics in Aztec society.