Exam 6: The Americas

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The Aztec and Inkan civilizations both had their own unique strengths and weaknesses on the eve of their encounter with European societies.

The Aztec civilization had several strengths, including a well-organized and powerful military, a complex and sophisticated social and political structure, and a highly developed agricultural system that allowed them to support a large population. They also had a strong economy based on trade and tribute from conquered territories, as well as a rich cultural and religious tradition.

However, the Aztecs also had weaknesses that would ultimately contribute to their downfall. These included a rigid social hierarchy that led to discontent among the lower classes, as well as a reliance on tribute and forced labor from conquered peoples that bred resentment and resistance. Additionally, the Aztecs lacked immunity to European diseases, which would have devastating effects on their population after the arrival of the Spanish.

The Inkan civilization also had its own strengths, such as a highly centralized and efficient government, a vast network of roads and communication systems, and an advanced system of agriculture that allowed them to thrive in the Andean mountains. They also had a strong economy based on trade and a well-developed system of record-keeping and administration.

However, the Incas also had weaknesses that made them vulnerable to European conquest. These included a lack of immunity to European diseases, as well as a rigid social and political structure that made it difficult for them to adapt to the changing circumstances brought about by the arrival of the Spanish. Additionally, the Inkan empire was already weakened by internal conflicts and civil war at the time of the Spanish conquest.

Overall, both the Aztec and Inkan civilizations had impressive strengths, but they also had vulnerabilities that would ultimately contribute to their downfall in the face of European colonization.

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Ball courts were an important feature of Mesoamerican civilizations, particularly the Aztecs and Mayans. These courts were used for a ritualistic ball game that held religious and political significance. The game was played with a rubber ball and involved players using their hips to keep the ball in play. The ball courts were often located near temples and were used for ceremonial purposes, including human sacrifice. The ball game was seen as a way to resolve conflicts and maintain cosmic balance, and winning teams were often rewarded with prestige and honor. The ball courts were also used for social and political gatherings, making them an important center of community life in Mesoamerican societies.

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Calpullis were kinship-based clans or neighborhoods in ancient Aztec society. Each calpulli was responsible for various social, economic, and religious activities within their community, including land cultivation, tribute collection, and organizing religious ceremonies. They played a crucial role in the organization and governance of Aztec society, and were an important unit of social and political organization. The calpullis also served as a means of social cohesion and identity for the Aztec people, and were an essential part of the hierarchical structure of Aztec society.