Chapter 2—The Aztec Empire

Where did the Aztec build the capital of their civilization?

• a) in Cuzco, in present-day Peru
• b) on an island in the Caribbean
• c) in Tenochtitlán, in present-day Mexico
• d) in the rainforests of the Yucatán Peninsula

Which word best describes the Aztec before they built their empire?

• a) farmers
• b) scientists
• c) wanderers
• d) conquerors

The Aztec were known for being _______and ________. Select two correct answers

• a) fierce warriors
• b) great conquerors
• c) talented musicians
• d) skilled road builders
• e) impressive memorizers

What was unusual about the Aztec capital Tenochtitlán?

• a) It was built on an island.
• b) It was built high in the mountains.
• c) It was surrounded by dense rainforest.
• d) It had a network of expertly built stone roads.

What was one reason the Aztec waged war so often?

• a) They needed more land for growing crops.
• b) They wanted to expand their empire and power.
• c) They were always under attack from their neighbors.
• d) They believed the gods enjoyed seeing humans fight.

Which of the following events is depicted in this image?

• a) The Aztec decide that the eagle is a sacred animal.
• b) The Aztec understand that they are to become nomads.
• c) The snake becomes a sign of coming disaster for the Aztec.
• d) The sun god sends the Aztec a sign about where to build a great city.

In which area of the Aztec Empire was Tenochtitlán located?

• a) the south
• b) the north
• c) the east
• d) the west

Which phrases best explain the purposes of the Templo Mayor, or Great Temple? Select the two correct answers.

• a) to hold important government documents
• b) to celebrate the rulers
• c) to perform religious ceremonies
• d) to bury enslaved people
• e) to store food supplies for winter

What began occurring in the Aztec Empire during this leader’s reign?

• a) citizen revolts
• b) natural disasters
• c) appearances by the gods
• d) major infrastructure projects

Which statements best describe this image? Select the two correct answers

• a) It was a system used to track traded items.
• b) It describes the history of the Aztec people.
• c) It shows the resources of the Aztec Empire.
• d) It was part of a book used to record information.
• e) It displays the names and identities of Aztec gods.