Aztecs

1.  What was the major subsistence strategy and types of crops grown for the Aztec Empire?
The Aztecs main crop was Maize and it was grown throughout their land. In higher regions one crop was grown per season but in lower elevations two could be grown. However ater the famine, maize was grown everywhere at all different times.  Other crops include beans, chilies, squash, cactus (used for many things such as clothes and alcohol), as well as cotton and cacao/chocolate.

2.  What type of class structure did a majority of Aztecs follow?
It was a hierarchical structure, one in which the position a person is born dictated their rank in life, although it was possible to move up. The major separation of classes was between "the commoners and nobility". These classes were easily separated by a many number or rules. Common people has to wear plain clothes that ended around the knees, while noble people could wear headbands, armbands, and facial jewelry. There were also political and economic differences; the nobles could own land and hold religious/public offices and they had better houses.

3.  In the areas of religion, expressive culture and the arts, which Aztec pattern was most interesting to YOU?
Although the human sacrifice is fascinating, what interested me more was the "animal counterpart" that was briefly mentioned. Many things the Aztecs/Mexica people did/believed did not surprise me, however, the nagual did. I wasn't expecting it and i find it to be a very intriguing idea. It makes me wonder all kinds of questions, especially since not much was said about them.

4.  In your opinion, what can we learn from Mexica culture?
They are taught from a very young age about rituals and ceremonies and how life is precious. This instills a sense of responsibility and teaches them to be aware of what they are doing. Honoring the gods gave them a sense of purpose and helps them to appreciate what they have because at any moment it could be taken away. I'm not saying that everyone should engage in religious rituals and become polytheistic, but we should learn from their dedication, responsibility, and their belief that nothing lasts forever and if we are not taking care to ensure the earth is cared for, then it will die. They believed that life/the world depended on their actions to survive, and in a sense that is still true today. What we do and how we treat the earth will determine how long it can survive. We should learn from their appreciation.