The Aztec’s Enduring Legacy in Modern-Day Technology and Society

The Aztecs were an ancient civilization that was founded in the 13th century in central Mexico. They were known for their advancements in agriculture, architecture, and astronomy, and they left an enduring legacy in modern-day technology and society. Here are some ways the Aztecs’ legacy lives on.

1. Agriculture:
The Aztecs were masters at agriculture techniques, including terracing, irrigation, and crop rotation. They also developed a sophisticated system of chinampas, or floating gardens, which were created by building up soil on rafts made of reeds and then anchoring them to the lake bed. This allowed them to grow crops even in swampy areas. In modern-day agriculture, similar techniques are still used, including hydroponics and aquaponics, and sustainable farming practices are inspired by the Aztecs’ eco-friendly approach to agriculture.

2. Medicine:
The Aztecs were skilled in the use of medicinal herbs, a practice that has endured to this day. They used plants such as ocotea and copal to treat numerous ailments. Today, many modern medicines are made using plant extracts and other natural ingredients.

3. Astronomy:
The Aztecs were fascinated by astronomy, and they were one of the few ancient civilizations to develop a complex calendar that was based on the movements of the sun and the moon. Their celestial observations have influenced modern astrology, and the world’s famous astronomers still use their research to make predictions about the future.

4. Language:
Nahuatl, a language native to Central Mexico, traces its roots to the Aztec civilization. Despite colonization, many modern Mexicans still use Nahuatl, particularly in the southern regions of the country. Some words have even been adopted into the English language, such as “chocolate” and “avocado.”

5. Artistry:
The Aztecs were skilled in the visual arts, particularly in sculpture, painting, and textile-making. Their jewelry, pottery, and woodwork were renowned for their intricate designs and expert craftsmanship. Today, Mexican artisans continue to make use of these techniques, producing stunning embroidery, colorful ceramics, and silver and gold jewelry.

6. Architecture:
The Aztecs were one of the most advanced ancient civilizations in terms of architecture, and their use of canals and aqueducts to transport water from one place to another serve as a significant cause of inspiration for cities like Venice, Amsterdam, London, and Mexico City. Their pyramids, temples, and palaces were designed with great attention to detail, and the innovative design and engineering of their structures continue to influence architects today.

7. Sports:
The Aztecs were great athletes and is responsible for one of the most popular sports we have today; “Football.” Known as “tlachtli,” a game that involved a heavy rubber ball and a stone court with high walls, with scores calculated based on how many times the ball hit certain points on the wall. This game has since evolved into the modern football games that we see today.

In summary, the Aztecs’ contributions are still felt in numerous aspects of modern-day technology and society. From agriculture to astronomy, artistry to architecture, and medicine to language, the Aztecs made an indelible mark on the world, and their legacy is sure to live on for generations to come.