Explain how Aztec and incas were similar in their political interactions
Both the Aztecs and Incas had highly organized and complex political systems that governed their respective societies.
Firstly, both civilizations were imperialistic and had expansive empires. The Aztec Empire, also known as the Triple Alliance, was located in present-day Mexico and encompassed a vast territory. Similarly, the Inca Empire was situated in the Andes Mountains region of South America, stretching across modern-day Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and parts of Chile and Argentina.
Both the Aztec and Inca states were ruled by powerful monarchs or emperors. In the case of the Aztecs, the emperor was considered to be the supreme ruler and had absolute authority. Similarly, in the Inca Empire, the king known as the Sapa Inca was regarded as a divine ruler with complete control over the empire. The political systems in both societies were highly centralized, with all power vested in the hands of the ruler.
Both civilizations had elaborate administrative systems to govern their territories. The Aztecs had a hierarchical system with various levels of officials, including local chiefs, regional governors, and a council of advisers called the Tlatocan. The Incas also had a hierarchical administrative structure with officials who were responsible for managing different regions of the empire.
Additionally, both the Aztecs and Incas had complex systems of tribute and taxation. They collected tribute from conquered regions and used it to sustain their empires. Tribute often took the form of goods, resources, or labor. This system allowed the rulers to control the economy and maintain their power.
Furthermore, both civilizations utilized a sophisticated system of roads and infrastructure to facilitate communication and the movement of goods and people within their empires. The Aztecs had an expansive road system, while the Incas' road network, known as the Inca Road or Qhapaq Ñan, was one of the most impressive feats of engineering in pre-Columbian America. These roads played a crucial role in maintaining control and facilitating political interactions across vast territories.
In terms of diplomacy, both the Aztecs and Incas engaged in trade and formed alliances with neighboring city-states or regions. These diplomatic relationships allowed for economic exchanges, the sharing of knowledge and technology, and even military assistance when needed.
Overall, while there were certainly differences in their specific political structures and practices, the Aztec and Inca civilizations shared several similarities in their political interactions. Both had highly centralized political systems, expansive empires, complex administrative structures, tribute systems, and engaged in diplomatic relations with neighboring entities.