-The first were northern farmers that had migrated south (1100s)
-arrived in central Mexico and the only land left was a swampy island in the center of Lake Texcoco
-wars were the rise to power
-were fierce warriors (conquered towns)
-had many alliances and partnerships (helped defeat all surrounding towns
-those conquered paid tribute(like gold cotton food)
-tribute: a payment to a more powerful ruler/country
-was the basis of the Aztecs economy
-controlled a massive trade network
-local farmers and artisans etc drew crowds to the markets
-merchants carried rare luxurious goods
-often used as spies w/ emperor
-spies reported all troubles
-altogether made the powerful Mesoamerica state

Building an Empire