Why, and Why Then, Were the Aztecs Able to Create

question 119

Essay

Why, and why then, were the Aztecs able to create and rule an empire where they did? What were the most important factors helping them to do so?

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Definitions:

Plate Boundary

The edges where tectonic plates meet, which can be sites of earthquakes, volcanoes, and mountain building.

Pacific Ring

A region encircling the Pacific Ocean characterized by active volcanoes and frequent earthquakes, known as the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Fire

A rapid oxidation process, which is a chemical reaction resulting in the release of heat and light.

Island Arcs

Chains of islands formed close to continental margins over a subduction zone where one oceanic plate is forced under another.