The Aztec Empire, one of the most powerful and sophisticated civilizations in Mesoamerica, rose to prominence in the 14th century. Known for their impressive architectural feats, complex societal structures, and rich cultural heritage, the Aztecs built an empire that spanned much of present-day Mexico. In this session, we’ll explore the rise of the Aztec civilization, their intricate relationship with neighboring cultures, and the factors that contributed to their downfall following the arrival of Spanish conquistadors. Through this exploration, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of Aztec society and the enduring impact of their legacy.
Readings/Videos for this module:
Cartwright, Mark. “Cortés & the Fall of the Aztec Empire.” World History Encyclopedia. 2016. https://www.worldhistory.org/article/916/cortes–the-fall-of-the-aztec-empire/.
Learning Activity #1
Welcome to our discussion group activity on the Aztec Empire! This activity is an essential part of our exploration into the rich and complex history of the Aztec civilization and its interactions with the Spanish conquistadors.
In this session, you will be divided into four groups, each consisting of up to five participants. Together, you will engage in a thoughtful and reflective discussion on several key aspects of the Aztec Empire and its encounter with the Spanish. This activity is designed not only to deepen your understanding of these historical events but also to enhance your critical thinking and analytical skills.
Here’s what we’ll be focusing on:
- Personal Reflections: Start by sharing what you found most interesting or surprising about the Aztec Empire from the readings and videos as well as the primary source. This is a chance to connect personally with the material and share your insights with your peers.
- When looking at the primary source, try asking yourself the following questions: Who is the audience of the source? Who has written the source and why? Are there any limitation to the source such as a single perspective? What was the purpose of the source?
- Comparative Analysis: As a group, compare and contrast the cultures of the Spanish and the Mesoamericans. Consider aspects such as religion, social structure, governance, and daily life. What were the major differences, and how did these differences shape their interactions?
- Cultural Perspectives: Discuss the contrasting views held by the Spanish and the Mesoamericans about each other’s culture. What were the sources of misunderstandings or conflicts? How did these perceptions influence the outcome of their encounters?
Assessment: Your participation in this discussion will be graded based on the quality of your contributions, including the depth of your observations and the constructiveness of your remarks. Additionally, you will be required to take notes during the discussion, summarizing key points and reflections. These notes will be submitted to the instructor at the end of the session and will form part of your overall assessment.
This activity is worth 20% of your final grade, so be sure to engage actively and thoughtfully. We look forward to hearing your insights and seeing how you connect the historical events with the broader themes of power and cultural exchange.
Good luck, and enjoy the discussion!