Pochteca

Chapter 11 The Americas on the Eve of Invasion I. Introduction A. By 1500, Americas densely populated by Indians ? misnomer ? Columbus/Indies 1. Term has meaning only when used to apply to non-Indians B. Mesoamerica and Andean heartland 1. Imperial states in place when Europe arrives 2. Few areas influenced by two main centers 3. Areas that developed independently II. Postclassic Mesoamerica A. Introduction 1. Toltecs/Aztecs replace Mayas of 8th century CE a. By 15th century Aztecs created extensive empire ? war, religion, agrarian 2. Downfall of Mayans ? Teotihuacan a. Nomads from North come down b. Toltec Culture ? 968 established capital Tula 1. Sedentary/agrarian peoples with militaristic ethic 2. Cult of sacrifice/war