Chapter 7 - Aztec Geography and Beliefs
What was the purpose of human sacrifice in Aztec religion?
To please the gods
What were family clans called in Aztec society?
Calpolli
Which countries are within the Iberian Peninsula?
Spain and Portugal
Who was Hernan Cortes?
A Spanish conquistador who conquered Mexico
In which year did Mexico gain independence from Spain?
1821
What were codices in Aztec civilization?
Stories and teaching done through drawings
What were the primary roles of merchants in Aztec society?
To create artwork
Who were King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella?
Spanish monarchs who sponsored Christopher Columbus' voyages
In what country did Hernan Cortez arrive before Mexico?
Cuba
How did the encomienda system contribute to the exploitation of indigenous peoples in colonial Latin America?
B) It subjected indigenous peoples to forced labor and abuse by Spanish settlers
Which Aztec god was associated with warfare and the sun?
Huitzilopochtli
How was education structured for Aztecs boys vs girls? What did they each learn?
It was primarily focused on military training for boyis and keeping a home for girls.
What was the primary goal of the Spanish Inquisition?
To convert or eliminate Muslims and Jews
What role did intermediaries play in Cortes's interactions with the Aztecs?
they served as translators and cultural interpreters.
Who were mestizos in colonial Latin America?
Spanish settlers who married indigenous women
What was the New Fire Ceremony in Aztec culture and how often did it occur?
A purification ritual to renew the sun's energy by lighting new fires - every 52 years
What were 3 signs of status for Aztecs
A) Owning lots of land, wearing specific types of clothing and jewelry ,living in decorated palaces and temples
What was the Spanish Reconquista
The Christian reconquest of Spain from Muslim rule
How did the Aztec strategy differ from the Spanish strategy during the invasion?
The Aztecs attempted to negotiate a peaceful resolution with the Spanish.
What was the encomienda system in colonial Latin America?
A form of forced labor imposed on indigenous peoples for economic exploitation
What did tribute mean to the Aztecs, and how did they acquire it?
Tribute was a form of payment by conquered peoples, often in goods or labor.
Name 2/5 qualities characterized the ideal Aztec citizen
Courage, self sacrifice, modesty, clean living, obedience.
Which qualities are mentioned in "El Cid" the poem?
skill in battle, loyalty, fairness, and faith in God
What role did alliances with indigenous groups play in Cortes's conquest of Mexico?
They provided Cortes with crucial military support and intelligence.
What role did the viceroy play in colonial governance?
He served as the representative of the king and exercised executive authority over the colonies