How long ago did the Aztecs live? The Aztecs, also known as the Mexica, were a Mesoamerican civilization that flourished in what is now central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century. Their empire, known as the Aztec Empire, was one of the most powerful in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, and their influence can still be seen in modern-day Mexican culture and history.
The Aztecs’ rise to power began in the 14th century when they founded the city of Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco. They quickly expanded their territory through military conquest and formed alliances with other indigenous groups. Their capital city, Tenochtitlan, became one of the largest and most advanced cities in the world at the time, with a population of over 200,000 people.
The Aztecs were known for their intricate religious beliefs and practices, which included human sacrifice and the worship of numerous gods. Their society was highly stratified, with a rigid social hierarchy that included nobles, priests, warriors, and commoners. Their political system was also complex, with a ruler known as the tlatoani who held ultimate authority.
Despite their achievements, the Aztecs faced numerous challenges, including internal conflicts, external threats from neighboring tribes, and natural disasters. In 1519, the Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés arrived in Mexico, marking the beginning of the end for the Aztec Empire. The Spanish conquest was swift and brutal, and by 1521, the Aztecs had been defeated and their empire had fallen.
So, how long ago did the Aztecs live? The Aztec civilization lasted for approximately 300 years, from around 1325 to 1521. Their legacy, however, continues to resonate in the modern world, as their culture, language, and traditions have had a lasting impact on the people of Mexico and beyond.
