Farmers

Definition

Farmers in Aztec society were individuals primarily responsible for cultivating crops and managing agricultural production. They played a crucial role in the economy and daily life, as agriculture was the backbone of Aztec society, providing sustenance and resources for both commoners and the elite. The farmers' work was essential not just for food production, but also for supporting trade and religious practices within the culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Farmers were often organized into communal groups called calpullis, which helped manage land, resources, and labor.
2. The main crops cultivated by Aztec farmers included maize (corn), beans, and squash, which formed the basis of their diet.
3. Farmers utilized a system of crop rotation and intercropping to maintain soil fertility and increase productivity.
4. In addition to food crops, farmers also grew plants for medicinal and ceremonial purposes, reflecting their spiritual beliefs.
5. The success of farmers was critical for maintaining social order, as food shortages could lead to unrest and weaken the empire.

Review Questions

• How did the communal organization of farmers impact agricultural productivity in Aztec society?
  • The communal organization of farmers into calpullis fostered cooperation in managing land and resources, significantly boosting agricultural productivity. By working together, farmers could share labor, tools, and knowledge, leading to more efficient farming practices. This collective approach allowed them to implement effective crop rotation and intercropping techniques that enhanced soil health and crop yields.
• Discuss the significance of chinampas in the agricultural practices of Aztec farmers.
  • Chinampas were crucial to Aztec agriculture as they allowed farmers to create arable land on lake surfaces, significantly increasing crop production. This innovative method enabled farmers to cultivate multiple crops throughout the year due to the fertile soil provided by decomposed organic matter. The use of chinampas not only supported the growing population of Tenochtitlán but also demonstrated the advanced agricultural techniques employed by Aztecs.
• Evaluate how the role of farmers in Aztec society reflects broader social structures and cultural values.
  • Farmers in Aztec society exemplified the intricate relationship between social structure and cultural values. Their work directly supported both the elite class and religious practices, showing how vital agriculture was to maintaining societal stability. The reverence for agricultural gods like Mictlantecuhtli highlights how intertwined farming was with spiritual beliefs. Additionally, successful farming practices ensured a steady tribute flow, reinforcing the importance of agriculture in sustaining the empire's political power and economic strength.

Related terms

Chinampas: A unique agricultural method used by the Aztecs involving floating gardens on lakes to maximize crop yield.

Tribute: Goods or services that were paid by conquered peoples to the Aztec empire, often including agricultural products.

Mictlantecuhtli: The Aztec god of the underworld, who was also associated with agriculture and the cycle of life and death.