Aztec Economy
The Aztec economy was based on many markets where trading occurred. Some larger markets, such as Tenochtitlan’s Tlatelolco supported 50,000 traders on major market days. Because of their floating gardens, called Chinampas, they were able to grow a diverse collection of produce not necessarily dependent upon naked native available soil. For this reason, in addition to maize, tomatoes, avocados and potatoes frequently showed up at the markets as did meats from fish, rabbits, armadillos, snakes, coyotes and wild turkey. Other merchants would travel to other regions for for the purpose of collecting additional marketable goods such as turquoise, cacao beans, parrot feathers, silver and gold and even slaves.
Aztecs also paid taxes on goods sold and on services used. Failure to pay taxes resulted in punishments like slavery or the confiscation of property.
Aztecs also paid taxes on goods sold and on services used. Failure to pay taxes resulted in punishments like slavery or the confiscation of property.
Aztec social Structure
The Aztecs had a highly structured society, almost as impressive to the Spaniards as their architecture. A very powerful King, or high priest, and their family ruled at the top of the social pyramid. The priesthood was often made up of the high priest's family.
Below the King were the rulers of the city states. They lived in large palaces and had immense power as long as they paid taxes to the King. Other nobles included army and government officials, as well as others from the priesthood.
Beneath them were the merchants and artisans. Merchants were very important and seen as the suppliers of each city state. Artisans created beautiful luxury goods that would in turn trade for goods.
Farmers, warriors and craftsmen made up the second lowest tier. Later in Aztec history, warriors and craftsmen rose in importance over the farmers.
Slaves made up the lowest class but were not without rights. One became a slave by selling oneself to pay off a debt or as punishment. They were capable of buying their freedom and were not allowed to be sold unless they consented.
Below the King were the rulers of the city states. They lived in large palaces and had immense power as long as they paid taxes to the King. Other nobles included army and government officials, as well as others from the priesthood.
Beneath them were the merchants and artisans. Merchants were very important and seen as the suppliers of each city state. Artisans created beautiful luxury goods that would in turn trade for goods.
Farmers, warriors and craftsmen made up the second lowest tier. Later in Aztec history, warriors and craftsmen rose in importance over the farmers.
Slaves made up the lowest class but were not without rights. One became a slave by selling oneself to pay off a debt or as punishment. They were capable of buying their freedom and were not allowed to be sold unless they consented.