Step-by-step explanation:
Section 1: The Origins of the Aztecs
Long before the arrival of the Spanish, the Aztecs were a small tribe living in the region of modern-day Mexico. According to legend, the Aztecs were led to the region by their god, Huitzilopochtli. They settled on a small island in the middle of a lake and began to build their city, Tenochtitlan. The Aztecs were skilled farmers and traders, and their city grew quickly. They built temples and palaces and developed a powerful religion and culture.
Image: A picture of the Aztec god Huitzilopochtli leading the Aztecs to their new home
Section 2: The Growth of the Aztec Empire
As the Aztecs grew more powerful, they began to conquer neighboring tribes and expand their empire. They developed a tribute system, in which conquered tribes would pay taxes to the Aztecs in the form of crops, goods, and even people. This system helped to support the Aztec military and make their rulers wealthy. The Aztecs also made great strides in art, religion, and medicine during this time.
Image: A picture of a group of Aztec warriors leading a conquered tribe to pay tribute to the Aztecs
Section 3: The Arrival of the Spanish
In 1519, the Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes arrived in Mexico. He and his men were amazed by the wealth and power of the Aztecs, but they also saw an opportunity to conquer them and claim their riches for Spain. The Aztec ruler at the time, Moctezuma II, welcomed the Spanish at first, but tensions soon arose between the two groups.
Image: A picture of Hernan Cortes and his men meeting Moctezuma II and the Aztecs
Section 4: The Fall of the Aztec Empire
In 1521, after a long and brutal war, the Spanish conquistadors finally defeated the Aztecs and destroyed their capital city, Tenochtitlan. The Aztecs were devastated by the Spanish conquest, and their culture and way of life were forever changed. Many Aztecs were killed or enslaved, and their cities and temples were destroyed.
Image: A picture of Spanish conquistadors attacking the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan
Section 5: The Legacy of the Aztecs
Despite their defeat, the Aztecs left a lasting legacy on the world. Their art, architecture, and culture continue to influence modern-day Mexico and the wider world. The Aztecs were also skilled farmers, and many of their agricultural practices are still used today. The Aztecs may be gone, but their impact on history is still felt today.
Image: A picture of modern-day Mexico City, with its Aztec roots still visible in the art and architecture of the city.