Aztec Warfare: Imperial Expansion and Political Control (Civilization of the American Indian Series)

In exploring the pattern and methods of Aztec expansion, Ross Hassig focuses on political and economic factors. Because they lacked numerical superiority, faced logistical problems presented by the terrain, and competed with agriculture for manpower, the Aztecs relied as much on threats and the image of power as on military might to subdue enemies and hold them in their orbit. Hassig describes the role of war in the everyday life of the capital, Tenochtitlan: the place of the military in Aztec society; the education and training of young warriors; the organization of the army; the use of weapons and armor; and the nature of combat. Aztec Warfare Contents Illustrations and Maps Preface Note on Orthography 1 Introduction Part One. War in Aztec Life 2 The Political Bases of Aztec Warfare 3 The Military Life Cycle 4 Declaration, Preparation, and Mobilization 5 The March and the Encampment 6 Arms and Armor 7 Combat 8 Victory (or Defeat) and Its Aftermath Part Two. The History of Aztec Expansion 9 The Preimperial Kings 10 Itzcoatl 11 Moteuczomah Uhuicamina 12 AxayacatI 13 Tízoc 14 Ahuitzotl 15 Moteuczomah Xocoyotl 16 The Spanish Conquest 17 Conclusion Glossary Notes References Index