The Aztecs were a fascinating civilization that thrived in Central America from the 14th to the 16th centuries. One of their most impressive achievements was the creation of an incredibly accurate agricultural calendar. This calendar was essential for their agricultural practices, as it helped them determine the best times for planting and harvesting crops. How did the Aztecs manage to create such an intricate calendar? Let’s explore the role of mountains and the movement of the sun in this remarkable feat.
The Importance of Agriculture in Aztec Society
Agriculture played a central role in Aztec society, providing food and sustenance for the growing population. The Aztecs relied on various techniques to maximize their agricultural output, including terracing of hillsides, irrigation systems, and crop rotation. However, one of their most innovative contributions to agriculture was the development of a sophisticated calendar system based on observations of the natural world.
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How Did the Aztecs Use Mountains in Their Calendar?
The Aztecs observed the movements of the sun against the backdrop of the mountains surrounding their cities. They noticed that the sun’s position changed throughout the year, rising and setting at different points along the horizon. By tracking these movements, the Aztecs were able to divide the year into different seasons, each marked by specific agricultural activities.
The Sun’s Role in the Aztec Calendar
In addition to the mountains, the sun played a crucial role in the Aztec agricultural calendar. The Aztecs worshipped the sun as a powerful deity, believing that its movements influenced the growth of their crops. They carefully observed the sun’s path across the sky and used this information to determine the best times for planting and harvesting their crops.
The Creation of the Aztec Calendar
Using their observations of the sun and mountains, the Aztecs developed a complex calendar system that guided their agricultural practices. This calendar consisted of 18 months, each lasting 20 days, for a total of 360 days. To account for the extra days in the solar year, the Aztecs added a five-day period at the end of the year.
Conclusion
The Aztecs’ agricultural calendar was a remarkable achievement that helped them thrive in a challenging environment. By combining their knowledge of the sun’s movements with the geography of the mountains, the Aztecs were able to create a highly accurate calendar that guided their agricultural activities. This calendar not only ensured their survival but also allowed their civilization to flourish and prosper.