1.
Where was the Aztec Empire located?
Correct Answer
B. The Valley of Mexico
Explanation
The Aztec Empire was located in the Valley of Mexico. This region is situated in central Mexico and is surrounded by mountains. The Aztecs built their capital city, Tenochtitlan, on an island in the middle of Lake Texcoco, which is part of the Valley of Mexico. The empire expanded its territory through military conquests and established a powerful civilization in this region, known for its advanced agricultural practices, impressive architecture, and complex social and political systems.
2.
Whart was the name of the capital city of the Aztec Empire?
Correct Answer
A. Tenochitlan
Explanation
Tenochitlan was the name of the capital city of the Aztec Empire. It was founded in 1325 and located on an island in Lake Texcoco, in what is now Mexico City. Tenochitlan was a highly advanced and prosperous city, known for its impressive architecture, intricate canal system, and vibrant markets. It served as the political, economic, and cultural center of the Aztec civilization until it was conquered by the Spanish in 1521.
3.
TRUE OR FALSE: The Aztecs built chinampas, which were virtually floating gardens to keep up with food demands of the growing empire.
Correct Answer
A. TRUE
Explanation
The Aztecs did indeed build chinampas, which were essentially floating gardens. These were man-made islands made from mud and reeds, anchored to the lakebed of Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs used these chinampas to grow crops such as maize, beans, and squash, which helped meet the food demands of their expanding empire. The chinampas were an innovative agricultural technique that allowed the Aztecs to effectively utilize the limited land available to them in the lake region.
4.
TRUE OR FALSE: The language of the Aztecs was the Nahuatl language.
Correct Answer
A. TRUE
Explanation
The statement is true because the Aztecs did indeed speak the Nahuatl language. Nahuatl was the language spoken by the Aztec people, who were a dominant civilization in Mesoamerica before the Spanish conquest. Nahuatl was not only the language of the Aztecs but also of other indigenous groups in the region. It is still spoken by some communities in Mexico today.
5.
The Aztecs ______ to the gods to keep them happy. They felt if they didn't do such a thing, which of course is seen as very barbaric and immoral today, there would have been catastrophic events.
Correct Answer
sacrificed
Explanation
The Aztecs believed that sacrificing to the gods was necessary in order to maintain their favor and prevent disastrous events. This practice, although viewed as barbaric and immoral today, was an integral part of their religious beliefs and cultural traditions.
6.
_________ was a Spanish conquistador that led the Spanish Conquest of the Aztec Empire.
Note: Accents are not required.
Correct Answer
Hernan Cortez
Hernan Cortes
Explanation
Hernan Cortes was a Spanish conquistador who led the Spanish Conquest of the Aztec Empire. He is known for his expedition to Mexico in the early 16th century, where he defeated the Aztec Empire and established Spanish rule. The correct spelling of his name can be either "Hernan Cortez" or "Hernan Cortes," as accents are not required.
7.
What were some basic staples of the Aztec diet?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Maize, a type of corn
B. Avocados
D. Tomatoes
Explanation
The basic staples of the Aztec diet were maize, avocados, and tomatoes. Maize, also known as corn, was a primary food source for the Aztecs and was used to make tortillas and other dishes. Avocados were also commonly consumed and provided essential nutrients and fats. Tomatoes, although not originally native to the Americas, were introduced to the Aztecs and became a significant part of their diet. The other options listed, such as apples, bananas, and strawberries, were not part of the Aztec diet.
8.
What was the "currency" of the Aztec Empire?
Correct Answer
A. Cacao beans
Explanation
The currency of the Aztec Empire was cacao beans. Cacao beans were highly valued in Aztec society and were used as a form of currency for trading and commerce. They were considered a luxury item and were used to purchase goods and services. Cacao beans were also used to make a popular beverage called chocolate, which was consumed by the Aztec elite.
9.
TRUE OR FALSE: Chocolate was deemed a delicacy in Aztec times. It was often reserved for nobles/elite members of society.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In Aztec times, chocolate was considered a delicacy and it was typically reserved for the nobles and elite members of society. This suggests that only the privileged class had access to chocolate, reinforcing the idea that it was highly valued and seen as a luxury item.
10.
Of the names listed below, who was an actual Aztec Emperor?
Correct Answer
A. Montezuma II
Explanation
Montezuma II was an actual Aztec Emperor. He ruled the Aztec Empire from 1502 until his death in 1520. He is known for his resistance against the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés and the events surrounding the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire. Montezuma II played a significant role in the history of the Aztec civilization and is considered one of the most important Aztec emperors.
11.
TRUE OR FALSE: The Aztecs were monotheistic peoples?
Correct Answer
B. FALSE
Explanation
The Aztecs worshipped multiple gods. Religion was of the utmost importance to them. Each god or goddessruled one or more human activities/aspects of nature. Clearly, the Aztecs were polytheistic.