2.2 Founding of Tenochtitlan and early Aztec history

The Aztecs founded Tenochtitlan in 1325 CE, guided by a prophecy of an eagle on a cactus. This vision became a powerful symbol, later appearing on Mexico's flag. The city's location in Lake Texcoco presented unique challenges and opportunities for settlement.

Innovative agricultural techniques, like chinampas, revolutionized farming in the lake environment. These artificial islands supported intensive crop cultivation, allowing for population growth and urbanization. The first tlatoani, Acamapichtli, established the ruling dynasty and strengthened Tenochtitlan's power.

Founding of Tenochtitlan

Mythical Origins and Geographic Setting

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• Tenochtitlan established in 1325 CE as the capital of the Aztec Empire
• Eagle on cactus prophecy guided the Aztecs to the site of their future capital
  • Aztec priests interpreted this vision as a divine sign to settle in the area
  • Symbol became central to Aztec identity and later appeared on the Mexican flag
• Lake Texcoco provided the backdrop for Tenochtitlan's founding
  • Located in the Valley of Mexico, a high-altitude basin surrounded by mountains
  • Shallow, brackish lake system offered both challenges and opportunities for settlement

Innovative Agricultural Techniques

• Chinampas revolutionized agriculture in the lake environment
  • Artificial islands created by piling up mud and vegetation in shallow lake areas
  • Supported intensive crop cultivation, yielding up to seven harvests per year
  • Crops grown included maize, beans, squash, tomatoes, and chili peppers
• Chinampas expanded arable land and increased food production
  • Allowed for population growth and urbanization in Tenochtitlan
  • Created a complex network of canals used for transportation and irrigation

Early Aztec Political Structure

Leadership and Governance

• Acamapichtli became the first tlatoani of Tenochtitlan in 1375
  • Established the dynastic lineage that would rule the Aztec Empire
  • Implemented policies to strengthen Tenochtitlan's political and military power
• Tlatoani served as the supreme ruler of the Aztec state
  • Literally translated as "he who speaks," emphasizing the ruler's authority
  • Combined religious, military, and administrative roles
  • Succession typically passed to a male relative, often a brother or nephew

Social Organization and Local Administration

• Calpulli formed the basic social and administrative unit in Aztec society
  • Clan-based groups that managed land distribution, labor, and local governance
  • Provided military units and collected taxes for the central government
  • Maintained their own schools, temples, and communal lands
• Altepetl represented larger political entities within the Aztec Empire
  • City-states that consisted of multiple calpulli
  • Governed by local rulers who answered to the tlatoani of Tenochtitlan
  • Formed alliances, paid tribute, and participated in the empire's military campaigns