Bad Aztec Essay:

The incredible organization of the Aztecs allowed them to achieve wonderful accomplishments, such as
the construction of their massive cities and their expansion throughout Mesoamerica. They owe this
success to their way of governing. The Aztec government was structured as a monarchy with a
hierarchical structure. This structure gave every citizen a role in the growing empire, which made their
hierarchical system run smoothly due to everyone’s individual responsibilities. The hierarchy had seven
different levels of status: emperor (tlatoani), nobility (pipiltin), priests (tlamacazque), warriors
(cuauhocelotl), merchants (pochteca), commoners (macehualtin), and slaves (tlacotin). This structure
allowed the Aztec civilization to prosper throughout multiple centuries, which proves its effectiveness at
the time. Although this structure helped the Aztecs reach their status, it was crucial that everyone in
their society play their role. The hierarchy would have collapsed if any of the pillars of the structure were
ineffective at completing their tasks. In Aztec society, every individual had a greater purpose that they
were serving by helping the growth of the empire.

Slaves were at the lowest pillar of the social hierarchy established by the Aztecs. They were normally
prisoners of war, individuals in debt, and criminals. Slaves were in charge of labor-intensive tasks, such as
construction and agricultural work. Slaves had limited rights, although some could eventually earn their
freedom through their work. Commoners came after slaves and formed up the grand majority of the
Aztec civilization. Commoners had a very casual role within the empire, focusing their energy on farming,
craftwork, and trading. Commoners, like civilians today, were the main agricultural and economic
sustainers of the empire. Merchants were fifth on the list and were responsible for long-distance trade
and commerce. They had to travel to different regions to exchange goods and information with
neighboring cities or communities. Merchants had the greatest impact on the economy of the empire.
Warriors were above merchants and played an important role in defending the empire from possible
external threats. They were also in charge of leading conquests to further expand their reign. Within
their military, certain ranks were established to project authority. They were also responsible for
maintaining order throughout the empire. The third pillar was the priests, who were involved in one of
the most important roles in Aztec society. They were responsible for religious ceremonies and rituals.
They communicated with the Aztec gods and conducted sacrifices to ensure the safety of the empire. On
special occasions, the emperor was seen as the high priest. The second highest pillar belonged to the
nobility, which was the highest social class below the emperor. They were in charge of political and
administrative roles, including governors, judges, and commanders, to oversee the smooth flow of the
empire. The highest social pillar was held by the emperor. He was the political and religious leader of the
empire, and his duties included administering justice, organizing the military, and realizing religious
ceremonies.