Naked Science Season 5 Episode 6 What Killed the Aztecs?

In Naked Science season 5 episode 6, titled "What Killed the Aztecs?", viewers are taken on a journey through time to uncover the truth behind the fall of one of the most powerful empires of the ancient Americas – the Aztecs.

The episode begins by introducing the Aztec civilization, which was located in central Mexico and flourished between the 14th and 16th centuries. It highlights their achievements, such as their advanced knowledge of astronomy and engineering, as well as their cultural and religious practices.

However, despite their advancements, the Aztecs were unable to withstand the arrival of Spanish conquerors in the early 16th century. The episode identifies this as a turning point in Aztec history, as their population was decimated by disease and the empire was eventually conquered by the Spanish.

The episode then delves deeper into the question of what caused the Aztec downfall, examining various theories and tracing the roots of the epidemic that ravaged their population.

One of the theories explored is that the Aztecs were undone by smallpox, as many of the Spanish conquistadors were carriers of the disease. The episode shows evidence of this, including written accounts from Spanish explorers that describe seeing indigenous people with smallpox marks. However, not all historians agree that smallpox is solely responsible for the Aztec's fall.

Another theory explored in the episode is that the Aztecs were already weakened by years of warfare, famine, and overcrowding, making them more vulnerable to disease. The episode discusses the environmental challenges that the Aztecs faced, including their reliance on a shallow and contaminated lake for drinking water and irrigation.

The show also examines the role of human sacrifice in the Aztec religion and culture, which has been suggested as a possible factor in their downfall. Some researchers believe that the Aztec practice of human sacrifice may have contributed to the spread of disease, as large crowds of people were often gathered together during ritual ceremonies.

To investigate these theories further, the episode takes viewers to various locations and introduces experts who provide additional insight and evidence. For example, the show visits Mexico City to explore the archaeological remains of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, where they find evidence of an epidemic that struck the city shortly before the arrival of the Spanish.

In addition, the episode speaks with a forensic anthropologist who has analyzed Aztec bones and discovered signs of disease, such as syphilis and tuberculosis. This information supports the theory that the Aztecs were weakened by a combination of factors, including warfare, environmental challenges, and disease.

Throughout the episode, viewers are provided with a wealth of information and differing perspectives on what led to the fall of the Aztec empire. While conclusive evidence remains elusive, the show ultimately highlights the importance of studying history and learning from the past to prevent similar catastrophes in the future.

Overall, Naked Science season 5 episode 6 is a thought-provoking exploration of one of the most significant events in the history of the Americas. Through its use of expert interviews, detailed analysis, and compelling narrative, the show offers a fascinating insight into the complex factors that led to the fall of the Aztecs, leaving viewers with a greater appreciation for the complexities of ancient history.