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1200
1200 CE: Origins and Migration
The Mexica people begin their migration from Aztlán, a mythical northern homeland. Their journey marks the beginning of their long and transformative history, shaping their identity and destiny. This period marks the emergence of their tribal structure, warrior ethos, and deep religious devotion to Huitzilopochtli, their patron god. The spread of the Nahuatl language among different groups lays the foundation for cultural and political unity, shaping the future Aztec civilization. -
Period: 1200 to 1300
1200-1300 CE: Early stages of their migration
During this period, they journeyed southward, eventually arriving in the Valley of Mexico around the late 12th century. Initially, they were a semi-nomadic tribe, settling on the outskirts of more powerful groups. Their primary focus during this time was establishing alliances and defending against stronger tribes. -
1250
1250 CE: Arrival in the Valley of Mexico
The Mexica temporarily settle in Chapultepec, a rocky hill near Lake Texcoco. They build small settlements but remain under the control of stronger city-states.
The Tepanecs of Azcapotzalco eventually drive them out, forcing them to seek refuge elsewhere. -
1300
1300–1521 CE: Nahuatl Language in the Aztec Empire
The Nahuatl language was central to the Aztec Empire, emerging as the lingua franca by 1300 CE as the Mexica consolidated their power. By the 15th century, Nahuatl was widely spoken across the empire, facilitating communication among diverse peoples. It was used in administration, religious rituals, and cultural expression, preserving Aztec heritage. Even after the empire's fall in 1521 CE, Nahuatl survived, continuing to be spoken by over 1.5 million people today. -
Period: 1300 to 1350
1300-1350 CE: Settlement
In 1325 CE, they founded Tenochtitlán, a small but strategic city that would grow to become the heart of the Aztec Empire. During this period, the Mexica began forming alliances with neighboring city-states, including Texcoco and Tlacopan, laying the foundation for the Aztec Triple Alliance. Despite being a relatively small and initially low-status group, the Mexica started to gain military and economic influence in the region, setting the stage for their future dominance in central Mexico. -
1325
1325 CE: The Founding of Tenochtitlán
Guided by a vision of an eagle perched on a cactus devouring a serpent, the Mexica found Tenochtitlan on a marshy island in Lake Texcoco. This legendary event marks the birth of what would become one of the greatest cities in the world. This site became the heart of the Aztec civilization, a testament to their ingenuity and determination in transforming a challenging environment into a thriving metropolis. -
1337
1337 CE: The Tlatelolco Market and Temple
The Tlatelolco Market was established around 1337 CE in the city of Tlatelolco, which was a powerful trading hub and rival to Tenochtitlán. By 1473 CE, it became the largest market in the Aztec Empire, with thousands of merchants selling goods ranging from food and textiles to gold and exotic animals. The Templo Mayor of Tlatelolco, built in the same period, served as the religious center of the city. After Tlatelolco’s conquest by Tenochtitlán, the market continued to thrive. -
1350
1350 CE: Development of Chinampas and Farming Tools
The Aztecs refine their chinampa agriculture, using wooden stakes and woven reeds to create artificial islands. Stone and obsidian tools are used for farming. -
Period: 1350 to 1400
1350-1400 CE: Early Development
Development of chinampas for agriculture to sustain the growing population. These "floating gardens" exemplify the resourcefulness of the Aztecs in maximizing their agricultural output. The chinampas not only provided food but also contributed to the aesthetic beauty of Tenochtitlan. 1375 Acamapichtli becomes the first ruler (tlatoani) of Tenochtitlán.
He strengthens the city’s political structure and military power. -
Period: 1376 to 1395
Acamapichtli (1376–1395 CE)
The first emperor of the Mexica, he established the dynasty that would rule the Aztec Empire. -
Period: 1395 to 1417
Huitzilihuitl (1395–1417 CE)
Acamapichtli's son, who helped solidify the Mexica's position in the Valley of Mexico. -
1400
1400 CE: Increased Conflict with Neighboring Cities
The Mexica serve as warriors for the Tepanecs of Azcapotzalco.
They grow stronger but remain under Tepanec rule, paying tribute. -
1400
1300–1500 CE: Aztec Mathematical and Calendrical Achievements
The Aztecs' achievements in mathematics, including the use of a vigesimal (base-20) system and the development of accurate calendar systems like the Tonalpohualli (260-day ceremonial calendar) and the Xiuhpohualli (365-day agricultural calendar), were developed long before the arrival of the Spanish. These calendar systems were part of the Aztec civilization's cultural practices and began taking shape in the centuries leading up to the height of the Aztec Empire -
Period: 1417 to 1427
Chimalpopoca (1417–1427 CE)
Son of Huitzilihuitl, his reign was marked by military conflicts and further consolidation of power. -
Period: 1427 to 1440
Itzcoatl (1427–1440 CE)
Known for his role in founding the Aztec Triple Alliance with Texcoco and Tlacopan, which greatly expanded the empire's territory. -
1428
1428 CE: War Against the Tepanecs
Itzcoatl, the fourth ruler of Tenochtitlán, leads a rebellion against Azcapotzalco.
The Mexica ally with Texcoco and Tlacopan, forming the Triple Alliance.
Together, they overthrow the Tepanecs and establish the Aztec Empire. -
Period: 1428 to 1469
1428–1469 CE: The Formation of the Aztec Empire
Between 1428 and 1469 CE, the Mexica rose to power, forming the Aztec Empire. In 1428, Itzcoatl led Tenochtitlán’s rebellion against the Tepanecs, forming the Triple Alliance with Texcoco and Tlacopan. After victory, Itzcoatl restructured history and governance. Moctezuma I (1440–1469 CE) expanded the empire, imposing tribute and strengthening military and religious systems. Grand temples, aqueducts, and causeways solidified Tenochtitlán’s dominance. -
Period: 1440 to 1469
Moctezuma I (1440–1469 CE)
Expanded the empire's territory, strengthened its economy, and oversaw the construction of important religious and architectural structures. -
Period: 1469 to 1481
Axayacatl (1469–1481 CE)
Known for his military campaigns and the successful expansion of the empire. -
Period: 1470 to 1502
1470–1502 CE: Expansion and the Golden Age
Ahuitzotl expands the empire to its greatest territorial extent, reaching Guatemala and the Gulf of Mexico.
Large-scale public works are constructed, including a major aqueduct system.
Human sacrifice increases as part of religious ceremonies to honor Huitzilopochtli.
Tenochtitlán becomes the largest and most powerful city in Mesoamerica. -
1473
1473: Coyolxauhqui Stone
A large, circular stone relief discovered at the Templo Mayor, showing the dismembered moon goddess Coyolxauhqui, symbolizing the myth of her defeat by Huitzilopochtli. It was central to Aztec sacrificial rites. -
1480
1480 CE: The Stone of Tizoc
The Stone of Tizoc is a massive carved monument, depicting the military victories of Emperor Tizoc. Measuring about 2.7 meters in diameter, it features intricate carvings of Tizoc defeating rival leaders, symbolizing Aztec dominance. Likely used for sacrificial rituals, the stone also has a central cavity, possibly for ceremonies linked to warfare and the cosmos. This artifact reflects the Aztecs’ military power, religious beliefs, and artistic achievements. -
Period: 1481 to 1486
Tizoc (1481–1486 CE)
Tizoc's reign was less successful militarily, with his campaigns failing. His rule was short, and he was replaced due to his inability to achieve significant military victories. -
1482
1481 CE: The Palace of Axayácatl
The Palace of Axayácatl was built during the reign of Axayácatl (1469–1481 CE). It became historically significant in 1519 CE when Hernán Cortés and his forces stayed there after arriving in Tenochtitlán. The palace was later destroyed by the Spanish, and parts of its foundations now lie beneath Mexico City’s National Palace. -
Period: 1486 to 1502
Ahuitzotl (1486–1502 CE)
Known for the empire's largest territorial expansion, Ahuitzotl led successful campaigns in the south and east. He oversaw the completion of the Great Temple in Tenochtitlán. -
1487
Templo Mayor
The Templo Mayor is completed at Tenochtitlan and inaugurated with the sacrifice of 20,000 captives. The location was chosen with purpose as the temple was a stone improvement on the original shrine the first settlers of Tenochtitlan had built in honour of Huitzilopochtli in the Aztec founding legends. As the temple grew over the years, offerings and precious goods were ritually buried within its ever-expanding layers -
1487
1487 CE: Massive Human Sacrifices at the Templo Mayor
To commemorate the expansion of the Templo Mayor, thousands of captives are sacrificed in a massive ritual, emphasizing the importance of religious ceremonies in Aztec culture. -
1492
1492 CE: Contact with Spanish Goods Through Trade Networks
Although the Aztecs do not yet meet the Spanish, their trade routes bring European goods (like glass beads and metal objects) from the Caribbean, foreshadowing future encounters. -
1502
1502 CE – Moctezuma II Becomes Emperor
Moctezuma II ascends to the throne, ruling with absolute authority. He expands the empire but imposes heavier tributes, causing resentment among subject peoples. His reign is marked by a focus on religious rituals and omens, believing divine forces shape the empire’s fate. -
Period: 1502 to 1519
1502–1519 CE: Internal Struggles and the Arrival of the Spanish
Between 1502 and 1519 CE, the Aztec Empire faced growing unrest under Moctezuma II. Heavy tributes and military campaigns led to tensions, weakening internal stability. As the empire struggled with rebellions, reports of Spanish arrivals in 1517 spread, seen as possible omens. Moctezuma, uncertain of their intentions, sent emissaries and gathered intelligence, while conflicts with rebellious regions continued, leaving the empire vulnerable on the eve of European contact. -
Period: 1502 to 1520
Moctezuma II (1502–1520 CE)
The last Aztec emperor, Moctezuma II expanded the empire and developed a strong tribute system. His reign ended with the arrival of Hernán Cortés, leading to the empire's downfall. -
1506
1506 CE – Rebellions in Conquered Territories
Several vassal states, including the Tlaxcalans and the Mixtecs, resist Aztec rule. These uprisings require military suppression, draining resources and weakening control over distant regions. -
1507
1507 CE: The New Fire Ceremony
The New Fire Ceremony, held every 52 years, was a crucial Aztec ritual ensuring cosmic renewal. As the old cycle ended, all fires were extinguished, and priests lit a new sacred fire atop Huixachtecatl using fire-drilling stones. If the fire caught, it signified the gods’ approval, and flames were spread across the empire. People offered ceremonial figurines, burned belongings, and performed sacrifices to secure balance in the universe. Excavations have uncovered fire-drilling tools and effigies -
1510
1510s: Sun Stone (Calendar Stone)
A massive 3.6-meter-wide basalt disk, depicting Tonatiuh, the sun god, surrounded by symbols representing the Aztec cosmology and the five eras of creation. It was likely used for ritual and sacrificial purposes. -
1519
1519 CE – Hernán Cortés Arrives
Hernán Cortés lands on the Mexican coast with his expedition, forming alliances with Aztec enemies like the Tlaxcalans. Moctezuma, uncertain whether Cortés is the god Quetzalcoatl or a conqueror, hesitates to act, setting the stage for the Spanish invasion. -
1520
June 1520 CE: The Massacre at the Great Temple
In June 1520, Spanish troops under Pedro de Alvarado massacred Aztec nobles and priests during the Tóxcatl festival, fearing an uprising. This brutal act enraged the people of Tenochtitlán, sparking a massive revolt. The Spanish were besieged in the palace, forcing Hernán Cortés to flee in the deadly Noche Triste. -
1520
June 1520 CE: La Noche Triste (The Night of Sorrows)
Tensions in Tenochtitlán erupted after Spanish forces, led by Pedro de Alvarado, massacred Aztec nobles and priests during the Tóxcatl festival. The enraged Aztecs besieged the Spanish inside the palace, cutting off supplies and launching relentless attacks. When Hernán Cortés returned, he attempted to restore order but failed. Forced to flee on June 30, the Spanish retreated under heavy Aztec assault. Many were killed or drowned in Lake Texcoco, marking a devastating defeat for the invaders. -
Period: 1520 to 1521
1520–1521 CE: The Fall of the Aztec Empire
the Aztec Empire faced its final struggle against the Spanish and their indigenous allies. Following the death of Moctezuma II and the brutal Noche Triste, the Aztecs, now led by Cuauhtémoc, fiercely resisted the invaders. However, disease, starvation, and prolonged siege tactics weakened Tenochtitlán. In August 1521, after months of intense battles, the city fell to Hernán Cortés and his forces, marking the end of the Aztec Empire and the beginning of Spanish rule in Mesoamerica. -
1521
1521 CE: Siege and Fall of Tenochtitlán
Cortés returns with Tlaxcalan warriors and Spanish reinforcements.
A devastating siege lasts for months, cutting off food and water supplies.
Smallpox, introduced by the Europeans, weakens the Mexica population.
On August 13, 1521, Tenochtitlán falls. Cuauhtémoc, the last Aztec emperor, is captured.
The Aztec Empire collapses, and Spanish colonial rule begins. -
Period: 1521 to
16th Century (1521–1600) – Spanish Conquest & Colonization
Hernán Cortés and his Spanish forces, along with Indigenous allies (like the Tlaxcalans), besiege and destroy Tenochtitlán. This marks the official end of the Aztec Empire and the beginning of Spanish rule in Mexico.The Spanish build Mexico City on the ruins of Tenochtitlán, using the remains of Aztec temples to construct Catholic churches and colonial buildingS. Enforces Catholic doctrine and bans Indigenous religious practices, leading to the destruction of remaining Aztec codices and temples. -
1522
1522: Mexico City
The Spanish establish Mexico City on the ruins of Tenochtitlán -
1531
1531 – Apparition of the Virgin of Guadalupe
According to legend, the Virgin Mary appears to an Indigenous man, Juan Diego, on Tepeyac Hill. The event helps convert Indigenous people to Catholicism and becomes a symbol of Mexican identity. -
1570
1570 – The Spanish Inquisition in New Spain Begins
The Spanish Crown enforces Catholic doctrine and bans Indigenous religious practices, leading to the destruction of remaining Aztec codices and temples. -
Period: to
17th & 18th Centuries (1600–1800) – Suppression & Revolts
A violent protest erupts as Indigenous people rebel against high taxes, famine, and racial discrimination under Spanish rule. The Spanish suppress the uprising, killing many participants.The Spanish authorities intensify efforts to eradicate Indigenous autonomy and culture, forcing assimilation into Spanish colonial society. -
Period: to
19th Century (1800–1900) – Mexican Independence & Land Struggles
Indigenous people, including Nahua descendants of the Aztecs, join the fight against Spanish rule. Although Mexico gains independence in 1821, Indigenous communities continue to face discrimination. 1848 Mexico cedes nearly half of its territory to the United States, displacing many Indigenous groups, including Nahuas, in the newly acquired U.S. territories. -
1824 – Establishment of the Mexican Republic
Mexico becomes a republic, but Indigenous rights remain ignored, and many Indigenous communities lose their lands. -
Period: to
20th Century (1900–2000) – Revolution & Cultural Revival
Indigenous people fight in the revolution for land and rights. Leaders like Emiliano Zapata advocate for Indigenous land reform, leading to the redistribution of some lands to Indigenous communities. -
1950s–1970s – Nahuatl Language & Cultural Revival
Nahuatl and other Indigenous languages gain recognition as part of Mexico’s cultural heritage. Efforts begin to preserve and teach these languages. -
1987 – Nahuatl Recognized as a National Language
The Mexican government officially recognizes Nahuatl as a national language, giving Indigenous people some linguistic rights. -
Period: to
21st Century (2000–Present) – Indigenous Rights & Recognition
Mexico passes a law protecting Indigenous languages and cultures, strengthening efforts to preserve Nahuatl and other Indigenous traditions. On the 500th anniversary of the Spanish conquest, Indigenous groups demand recognition of historical injustices and push for greater Indigenous representation in Mexican society. Efforts continue to preserve Nahuatl, promote Indigenous education, and integrate Indigenous perspectives into Mexican history and culture.