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Aztec Civilization

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Aztecs, also called Mexica, is a Mesoamerican civilization that flourished around 1350. Tenochtitlan is the capital of the Aztec empire built on the shores of Lake Texcoco. Aztecs were believed to be nomads who came from the Toltec tribe. They wandered into the valley of Mexico around 1325 and started to form villages. They dug canals, drained lakes and converted them into fertile fields. They also built the beautiful city of Tenochtitlan. The Aztecs were known for human sacrifice, which was associated to religious rituals. They believed that their gods sacrificed their own lives to sustain the earth. In return, human blood must be sacrificed to the sun, moon, earth, and vegetation gods to provide them nourishment to keep the nature and cosmos in balance (Benton & DiYanni, pg. 325-326). The Aztecs arose as the leading force in central Mexico taking the region’s city-states under their power by the 15th century. They developed a sophisticated political, social, commercial and religious organization. However, the Spaniards, led by the Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes defeated and conquered the Aztecs in 1521.
The Aztecs highly regarded songs and poetry. During their festivals, they held poetry contests and presentations that included musicians, acrobats, and players. Music and dance were also important parts of their rituals and ceremonies. Nezahualcoyotl was one of their famous poets. His poetry depicted the culture and values of the Aztecs. One example was his poem called

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