Conclusion


 * Conclusion: **

The Aztecs were different from many Old world armies in how they waged wars and the tools they used. Aztec weapons were simple and highly effective, often using obsidian instead of metal to fashion blades and spear tips. The Aztecs wore simple armor made from cotton and elaborate costumes to represent animals. One major difference of Aztec warfare is the capture of enemies rather than their destruction on the battlefield. Some enemies were killed, but it was more important to gain prisoners in the eyes of Aztec society. The Aztec warrior's prowess was measured in the number of captured enemies rather than the people they killed.

Ritual battles were held both within the society and between the Aztecs of Tenochtitlan and neighboring city states. Warriors were able to practice their skills for war and were able to keep alive the traditions of warfare. Warriors were held in high regard and the ruler of the Aztec people had to be an impressive warrior to keep his throne and to maintain control of the vast empire.  From the beginning of the empire, warfare has been a part of the Aztec culture. After usurping the Tepanecs, the Aztecs were able to gain tributaries enough to support a growing empire and provide a stable economic base. Some sources say that the Aztecs fought wars to appease the appitites of their bloodthirsty gods, namely Huitzilopochtli. Others, such as Hassig, say that the Aztecs fought for imperialistic reasons. While the reasons for fghting are debated, the importance of war in Aztec Society was not.

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