The Aztec Empire

ancient history · Mexico · empire · alliance

Three city alliance. The Aztec Empire wasn't just one city, but three Nahua city-states working together: Mexico-Tenochtitlan, Tetzcoco, and Tlacopan. These three powerful cities ruled the Valley of Mexico as a team.

Valley of Mexico home. The Aztecs built their civilization in and around the Valley of Mexico, a high mountain area in central Mexico. This location gave them natural protection and rich land for farming.

Nearly 100 year reign. From 1428 until 1521, the Aztec Empire controlled their region, making it one of history's great civilizations. That's almost a hundred years of power and influence!

The Mexica people. The Aztecs are also called the Mexica or Culhua-Mexica, which were the names of the people who actually lived there. Today we use the word 'Aztec' because it's easier to say and remember.

Spanish conquest end. In 1521, Spanish conquistadores led by Hernán Cortés defeated the Aztec Empire with help from other native peoples who were allied with Spain. This marked the end of their independent rule.