The Impact of the Environment on Mesoamerican Civilizations
Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Aztecs and the Incas, were greatly impacted by their environment. The climate, geography, and resources of Mesoamerica shaped how these civilizations developed and interacted with their surroundings.
The climate of Mesoamerica is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity. This climate influenced the way that the Aztecs and the Incas built their homes and cities. They used materials that were readily available to them, such as adobe and stone, to construct buildings that would withstand the hot weather. The Aztecs and the Incas also designed their cities to take advantage of the natural resources in the area. For example, the Aztecs built their capital city, Tenochtitlan, on an island in the middle of a lake. This location provided the Aztecs with access to fresh water and transportation.
The Geography of Mesoamerica
The geography of Mesoamerica also played a role in the development of the Aztec and Inca civilizations. The mountains and valleys of Mesoamerica created different microclimates, which the Aztecs and the Incas used to their advantage. For example, the Aztecs cultivated crops in the valleys, where the climate was cooler and drier. They also built their cities on high ground, which provided protection from floods.
The resources of Mesoamerica, such as gold and silver, influenced the development of the Aztec and Inca civilizations. These civilizations acquired wealth through trade and conquest, which allowed them to finance their military campaigns and expand their empires. The Aztecs and the Incas also used their resources to create artwork and architecture that demonstrated their power and prestige.
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