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The Aztecs: People of the Sun
Essay written by xerex@rmii.com

INTRODUCTION
The Aztecs were an American Indian people who ruled a mighty empire in Mexico from
the 1400's to the 1500's. The Aztecs had one of the most advanced civilizations in the
Americas and built cities as large as any in Europe at that time. They also practiced a
remarkable religion that affected every part of their lives and featured human sacrifice.
The Aztecs built towering temples, created huge sculptures, and held impressive
ceremonies all for the purpose of worshipping their gods. Their magnificent empire was
destroyed by the Spaniards in the year 1521, but the Aztecs left a lasting mark on
Mexican life and culture.

The majority of the Aztecs lived in what is now called the Valley of Mexico. Located at
an elevation of over 7,000 feet, the large valley has housed many great cities. From
the massive pyramids of Tenochtitlan, to the inhabitants of the vast hub of modern
Mexico City, the great valley has been the heartland of many empires. The mighty
Aztecs were the last indigenous group of people to enter the Valley of Mexico.

Like many other pre-Columbian cultures, the Aztecs developed their own political
system, religion, social structure, agricultural techniques, lifestyle and world view. The
Aztecs were truly unique.

THE ORIGINS OF THE AZTECS
The early Aztecs were semi-nomadic hunters and farmers. According to legend, in
about 1000 AD the Aztecs left their mythic, island homeland of Aztlan in the desert
frontiers of northern Mexico to begin their 100-year migration south to the Valley of
Mexico. Led by their powerful patron god, Huiziloposhtli, they continued their migration
southward, stopping along the way to plant crops, to build temples for their gods, and
to offer human sacrifices in their honor. From groups they encountered as they
traveled, the Aztecs adopted new customs and traditions. The Aztecs were becoming a
very religious people.

When...