Ep 4. The Aztecs

Engineering an Empire season 1 episode 4, titled "The Aztecs," takes us back to the rise of one of the most powerful empires in ancient history. The Aztecs were a Mesoamerican civilization that flourished between the 14th and 16th centuries, known for their impressive architecture, military prowess, and cultural achievements. This episode explores how the Aztecs, a small tribe that originally settled on a swampy island in Lake Texcoco, rose to become one of the most dominant forces in the world.

The episode begins by examining the Aztecs' founding myth, which tells the story of their migration from their ancestral homeland to Lake Texcoco on the orders of their god, Huitzilopochtli. This legend was used to justify the Aztecs' conquests and their belief that they were destined to rule over all other peoples. The show goes on to explain that the Aztecs developed an elaborate system of government and military organization that allowed them to expand their territory rapidly.

The host, Peter Weller, takes us on a tour of various Aztec sites, including the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan and the Templo Mayor in the heart of their capital, Tenochtitlán. He explains how these massive structures were built using advanced engineering techniques, such as the use of a lightweight volcanic stone called tezontle and a mortar made of lime and crushed seashells. The show also explores the Aztecs' impressive water management system, which consisted of aqueducts and canals that allowed them to bring clean water into their city despite its location in the middle of a lake.

In addition to their engineering achievements, the episode examines the Aztecs' religious practices, which involved human sacrifice and the worship of various gods. Weller visits the ruins of a sacrificial altar in the Templo Mayor and explains how the Aztecs believed that blood sacrifices were necessary to appease their gods and maintain the cosmic order. He also discusses the Aztecs' incredible knowledge of astronomy and their use of an intricate calendar system that allowed them to keep track of time and predict celestial events.

As the episode progresses, we learn about the Aztecs' conflicts with neighboring peoples and their eventual defeat at the hands of the Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés. Weller describes how the Aztecs' inability to adapt to new technologies, such as firearms and horses, contributed to their downfall. The episode ends by reflecting on the legacy of the Aztecs and their impact on modern Mexico and the world.

Overall, "The Aztecs" is a fascinating and informative episode of Engineering an Empire that showcases the incredible achievements of one of the most advanced civilizations in ancient history. Through a combination of expert analysis and stunning visuals, the show brings to life the Aztecs' impressive engineering feats, religious practices, and cultural achievements. Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in learning more about one of the most fascinating empires of the past, this episode is not to be missed.