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Religion in the Aztec Empire — Reading Comprehension

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This history passage explores the complex and fascinating religion of the Aztec Empire, a powerful civilization in the ancient Americas. Students will learn about the Aztecs’ polytheistic beliefs, the importance of gods like Huitzilopochtli and Quetzalcoatl, and the significance of rituals such as human sacrifice and temple ceremonies. The passage addresses the social hierarchy of Aztec priests, the role of religion in daily life, and the impact of geography on religious practices. Students are challenged to analyze cause and effect, interpret evidence from primary and archaeological sources, and understand the change and continuity of Aztec traditions. The resource includes a glossary, graphic organizers, a timeline, read aloud audio, multiple-choice questions, writing prompts, and a Spanish translation. This lesson aligns with CA HSS 6.7, CCSS RH.6-8, and is designed to help students master both historical and ELA standards while deepening their understanding of world history and the ancient Americas.

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"[Aztec priests bringing bound reeds for the sacred fire in the temple for the ceremony of the Burial of the Night]" / Library of Congress.

The Aztec Empire, which flourished in central Mexico from 1325 to 1521 CE, was deeply shaped by its complex system of religion. The Aztecs believed in many gods, or deities, each with unique powers and responsibilities. Their religion influenced every part of Aztec society, from daily routines to government decisions, and was closely connected to the empire’s geography and social structure.

Central to Aztec religion was the worship of the sun god Huitzilopochtli, who was considered the protector of the Aztec people and the god of war. The capital city, Tenochtitlan, was built on an island in Lake Texcoco, and its most important structure was the Templo Mayor. This grand temple stood at the heart of the city and was dedicated to both Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc, the rain god. Archaeologists have discovered the remains of Templo Mayor, which reveals how religious architecture dominated Aztec urban planning. Priests performed daily ceremonies there, offering food, flowers, and sometimes human blood to the gods. According to the Codex Mendoza, a primary source, the Aztecs believed these offerings kept the sun moving and the world alive.

One of the most striking features of Aztec religion was the practice of human sacrifice. The Aztecs believed that the gods needed human hearts and blood as nourishment to maintain cosmic order. This belief was rooted in their creation myths and is described in the Florentine Codex, compiled by the Spanish friar Bernardino de Sahagún. On special occasions, such as the festival of Tlacaxipehualiztli, captives were sacrificed at the Templo Mayor to honor Huitzilopochtli. While this practice may seem shocking today, it was viewed by the Aztecs as a sacred duty that ensured the survival of their society.

Religion also shaped the Aztec social hierarchy. The priesthood was a powerful class, responsible for interpreting omens, conducting rituals, and maintaining the calendar. Priests were highly educated, and boys from noble families often trained for years to join their ranks. Ordinary people participated in religious festivals, made offerings at home altars, and followed the sacred calendar. Geographic features such as mountains, lakes, and caves were seen as sacred, and local gods were honored in every city-state. Over time, while some rituals continued, Spanish conquest and Catholicism led to dramatic changes in Aztec religious life, blending old beliefs with new ones.

In conclusion, religion in the Aztec Empire played a central role in shaping its history, culture, and daily life. Through elaborate rituals, powerful priesthood, and monumental temples, the Aztecs expressed their devotion and tried to understand their world. Studying Aztec religion helps us see how beliefs can influence government, art, and social order across civilizations.

This topic connects to broader themes in history, such as the importance of religion in uniting societies and the ways beliefs adapt over time.

Interesting Fact: The Aztecs used a sacred calendar called the Tonalpohualli, which was made up of 260 days and guided all their religious ceremonies.

Who was the main Aztec sun god?

HuitzilopochtliTlalocQuetzalcoatlTezcatlipoca

What was Tenochtitlan?

Aztec capital cityMain Aztec godSacred calendarAztec festival

What did priests offer at Templo Mayor?

Food and human bloodGold and silverBooks and masksPottery and cloth

Why did Aztecs practice human sacrifice?

To feed the godsTo punish criminalsTo find goldTo help farming

How did geography affect Aztec religion?

Sacred sites were natural placesAll ceremonies held in forestsOnly one god was worshippedThey ignored their environment

What changed Aztec religion after 1521?

Spanish conquestFamineDroughtNew emperor