The Triple Alliance, also known as the Aztec Empire, was a confederation of three city-states established in the Mesoamerica region during the 15th century. The alliance was formed by the city-states of:
Formation
The Triple Alliance was established around 1428 after the defeat of the Tepanec Empire by the combined forces of Tenochtitlan, Texcoco, and Tlacopan. This event marked the beginning of the Aztec dominance in the region:
Structure and Governance
The governance of the Triple Alliance was characterized by:
- A Huey Tlatoani, or 'Great Speaker', who was the supreme ruler of Tenochtitlan and the de facto leader of the alliance.
- The Tlatoani of Texcoco and Tlacopan had significant autonomy but were subordinate to the Huey Tlatoani.
- The alliance operated through a system of tribute and conquest, where subject cities paid tribute to maintain peace or avoid being conquered.
Economy and Society
The Triple Alliance was:
- Highly stratified with a complex social hierarchy including nobles, commoners, serfs, and slaves.
- Supported by an extensive trade network and a sophisticated system of agriculture, including chinampas (floating gardens).
- Known for its impressive architectural and artistic achievements, as well as its cultural and religious practices, like the human sacrifice rituals.
Decline
The decline of the Triple Alliance was precipitated by:
- The arrival of Hernán Cortés in 1519, who, with the aid of local enemies of the Aztecs, overthrew Tenochtitlan in 1521.
- Internal conflicts, diseases introduced by Europeans, and the Spanish conquest led to the fall of the Aztec Empire.
Legacy
The Triple Alliance left a profound legacy in:
- Cultural practices that continue to influence modern Mexican identity.
- Architectural remains like the Templo Mayor in Mexico City.
- Language and traditions, with Nahuatl still spoken by some communities.
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