Aztec empire history overview with rulers

The Aztec Empire, also known as the Mexica Empire, was a Mesoamerican civilization that thrived in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th centuries. Here's an overview of the Aztec Empire's history and some of its notable rulers: 1. **Early History:** - The Aztecs originated as a semi-nomadic tribe called the Mexica, who migrated from northern Mexico to the Valley of Mexico in the early 14th century. - They settled on a small island in Lake Texcoco, where they founded their capital city, Tenochtitlan, in 1325 AD. - Through alliances and conquests, the Aztecs gradually expanded their territory and influence over neighboring city-states. 2. **Expansion and Hegemony: - Under the leadership of powerful rulers like Itzcoatl and his nephew Moctezuma I, the Aztecs expanded their empire through military conquest and strategic alliances. - They established a tribute system where conquered cities paid tribute to Tenochtitlan in the form of goods, labor, and captives for sacrifice. 3. **Height of the Empire:** - The reign of Moctezuma II, also known as Montezuma II, is often regarded as the peak of Aztec power and influence. - During his rule, the Aztec Empire controlled a vast territory, stretching from the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific Ocean and from central Mexico to present-day Guatemala. 4. **Spanish Conquest:** - In 1519, the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés arrived in Mexico with a small expeditionary force. - Taking advantage of internal divisions and resentment among subjugated peoples, Cortés and his allies were able to defeat the Aztec Empire. - In 1521, after a lengthy siege, Tenochtitlan fell to the Spanish, marking the end of the Aztec Empire. Notable rulers in Aztec history include: - **Itzcoatl:** Ruled from 1427 to 1440 and is credited with laying the foundation for Aztec expansion through military conquest and the formation of alliances with neighboring city-states. - **Moctezuma I:** Ruled from 1440 to 1469 and significantly expanded the Aztec Empire's territory through military campaigns. - **Moctezuma II (Montezuma II):** Ruled from 1502 to 1520 and faced the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. His inability to effectively respond to the Spanish invasion contributed to the downfall of the Aztec Empire. These rulers, among others, played crucial roles in shaping the history and trajectory of the Aztec Empire, which remains a significant civilization in the history of Mesoamerica.