Pochteca Roles and Significance

The video explores the role of pochteca, merchant spies crucial to the Aztec Empire's expansion. Originating from the Mexica, these agents gathered intelligence while trading, significantly impacting military strategies. Pochteca were divided into quimichin and oztomeca, each with distinct espionage roles. Their efforts facilitated the empire's growth, earning them wealth and status. Despite dangers, pochteca were revered, with their legacy influencing Mexica culture and military operations. The video concludes with a preview of a new PBS miniseries on Native America.

What was the primary role of pochteca in the Aztec Empire?

• To serve as religious leaders

• To lead military conquests

• To act as traveling merchant spies

• To build architectural structures

Where did the Mexica people originate from according to their legend?

• The Valley of Mexico

• The land of Aztlan

• The Andes Mountains

• The Gulf Coast

What was the significance of the Triple Alliance for the Mexica?

• It was a religious pact

• It was a cultural exchange

• It was a trade agreement

• It was a military coalition

How did pochteca disguise themselves during their missions?

• By using advanced technology

• By hiding in the jungle

• By changing their appearance and dialect

• By using magical spells

What was the role of quimichin among the pochteca?

• To perform religious ceremonies

• To work undercover in rival city-states

• To conduct trade negotiations

• To lead military attacks

What was the purpose of sending oztomeca into enemy territories?

• To convert locals to their religion

• To warn city-states of the Triple Alliance's presence

• To establish new trade routes

• To build new settlements

What did the pochteca receive after a successful journey?

• A feast in their honor

• A new title

• Land grants

• Regalia as a form of recognition

What was the main reason for the pochteca's separation from other Mexica citizens?

• Their language

• Their military skills

• Their wealth accumulation

• Their religious beliefs

How were pochteca buried according to Mexica customs?

• In the desert

• In the jungle

• In elevated places like mountain peaks

• In the city center

What was the significance of Yacatecuhtli for the pochteca?

• He was the god of war

• He was the god of trade and guidance

• He was the god of agriculture

• He was the god of the underworld