Aztec Life
What was the capital of the Aztec Empire?
Tenochtitlan
What were the “Three G’s” associated with Spanish exploration and conquest?
God, gold, and glory
What was La Malinche’s main role with Cortés?
Translator for Hernan Cortes (Spanish)
What does it mean to challenge authority?
To question, oppose, or resist those who hold power
Which priest is associated with the Grito de Dolores?
Miguel Hidalgo
What were chinampas used for?
Growing crops on raised farming plots
Which Spanish conquistador led the expedition against the Mexica?
Hernán Cortés
Why were her language skills valuable?
They helped the Spaniards communicate with Indigenous peoples.
How could heavy taxes encourage rebellion?
People may resent economic burdens, especially when they see little benefit or lack a voice.
What did the Grito de Dolores help begin in 1810?
Mexico’s struggle for independence
What is tribute?
Goods or labor demanded by a ruling power
Which disease devastated Indigenous communities during the conquest?
Smallpox
Give one detail that could support interpreting her as a survivor.
She endured being passed between groups and used her language skills to navigate dangerous circumstances. Explain the connection.
How could the colonial social hierarchy create resentment?
Groups had unequal access to power, privileges, and opportunities.
In what year did Mexico gain independence from Spain?
1821
What does a social hierarchy organize?
People into levels with different status, power, or responsibilities
Why compare Spanish and Indigenous accounts of the conquest?
To understand different experiences, perspectives, and possible biases
Give one detail that could support interpreting her as a survivor.
She endured being passed between groups and used her language skills to navigate dangerous circumstances. Explain the connection.
Give two lesson details that could support the claim that Mexico’s rebellion was justified.
Examples: heavy taxes, unequal treatment, limited political voice, and Spanish control of resources. Explain both.
Did the Constitution of 1824 establish a monarchy or a republic?
A republic
A tribute list shows conquered communities supplying goods. What does this suggest about their relationship with the empire?
The empire exercised power over them and drew resources from their communities.
Name two factors besides Spanish weapons that helped bring down the Aztec Empire.
Examples: Indigenous alliances, disease, siege, and shortages of food or water
Can someone be both a victim and a survivor? Explain using La Malinche.
Yes. Students must connect harm she experienced with how she endured or responded. Accept another interpretation if supported.
Why does independence not automatically create equality?
Ending foreign rule does not necessarily remove social inequality or unequal access to power.
Describe two features of the Constitution of 1824.
a federal republic, power divided between national and state governments, and Catholicism as the official religion