c. 1372–1427 CEReputable sourceWell documented
Vassals of Azcapotzalco
On the timeline · around c. 1372–1427 CE ·
What happened
For their first century the Mexica were not masters but subjects, paying tribute to the powerful Tepanec city of Azcapotzalco and serving as its mercenaries. Their first tlatoani (ruler), Acamapichtli, governed Tenochtitlan under Tepanec overlordship.
Why it matters
These decades of servitude taught the Mexica the arts of war and politics — and left them poised to seize power when their overlords faltered.
Sources
- World History Encyclopedia. Aztec Civilization · Reputable source