Welcome to World History Mexica (Aztecs)Warm-Up: Use PERSIA-GT notes to take quiz on Aztec portion of the textbook. Here are the questions:

1. T/F: The Aztec social structure included slaves that worked for wealthy families.

2. T/F: The Aztecs were a monotheistic society. They had one God, much like Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

3. What was unique about the role of women in the Aztec society? 4. The Aztec society was built on top of a large _____________. Hint: It’s

name is Texcoco. 5. How do we know that the Aztecs were sophisticated architects and

laborers?

Mexica (Aztecs)

Review PERSIA-GT components with your partner.

Today in Latin America

Aim To categorize the aspects of Aztec society and then evaluate the actions of Hernan CortesBig Idea All over the world today, big, wealthy countries are going in to “troubled” nations to help “fix” what they have. Put yourself in the shoes of the smaller nations. Imagine that other people see you as weird, but you see your society as normal. OR…perhaps you see your society as strange or immoral as well. Either way, would you want outsiders to help? Do you think they would have a genuine interest in your improvement?Homework Bring all of your semester one documents and notes to study during class tomorrow!!!!! The winners will take home bragging rights!!!!

Design improved irrigation and farmingCorn was the primary resources for food it will later become a huge part of the American economyAztec schools were advanced in

history, astronomy, and art. They were taught by priests. School was usually for boys and/or nobles.

Story of Mankind the Aztecs

• Come up with as many aspects to add to your PERSIA-GT chart as you can:• http://www.history.com/shows/mankind-the-story-of-all-of-us/videos

/mankind-the-story-of-all-of-us-new-world• Watch 7:40-16:45

Write and Discuss If a little brother/sister asked you to describe the Aztec society, how would you describe it? Note: think about the video, lecture, AND the reading. Provide support for your answer.

Mexica Aztecs (15 minutes)

1. Who became the ruler in 1502?2. According to paragraphs 2 and 3, why must humans be sacrificed?3. What does the excerpt by Cortes indicate about the Aztec economy?4. What did Cortes bring to Mexico with him? What does this indicate about his

intentions?5. On page 233, a Spanish observer described the Aztec civilization. 6. What did Cortes do with the Aztec ruler?7. What happened when Cortes briefly left the city?8. What causes (there were many) led to the fall of Tenochitlan?

• 232-top 234 (right column)

Discussion Questions• Go back through both readings. Put a “+” where you see something that

makes the Aztec society strong. Put a “-” where you see something that disturbs you. • How do the stories of the Spanish and Aztec historians differ (pertaining to

the death of the Aztec leader)? Why is that? How does this apply to everything that we know about history?• What played a bigger role in the conquest of the Aztecs: riches or religion?• Was Cortes justified in his dismantling of the Aztec society?• Can the conquering of societies be justified if their practices and beliefs are

seen as barbaric?

Cool Down

• Were the Spanish justified in their conquering of the Aztecs? Use SAPE.