Axayacatl facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Axayacatl |
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Axayacatl as depicted in the Codex Azcatitlan
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| Tlatoani of Tenochtitlan | |
| Reign | 3 House – 2 House (1469–1481) |
| Predecessor | Atotoztli II |
| Successor | Tizoc |
| Born | c. 1449 |
| Died | 2 House 1481 (aged 31–32) |
| Spouse | Xochicueyetl |
| Issue | |
| Father | Prince Tezozomoc |
| Mother | Princess Atotoztli II |
Axayacatl (born around 1449, died 1481) was a very important leader of the Aztec Triple Alliance. He was the sixth tlatoani (ruler) of Tenochtitlan, a major Aztec city. His name means "face of water."
Contents
Axayacatl's Life Story
Early Life and Family Connections
Axayacatl was the son of Princess Atotoztli II and Prince Tezozomoc. This made him the grandson of two famous Aztec Emperors: Moctezuma I and Itzcoatl.
He had several important family members. His brothers, Tizoc and Ahuitzotl, also became Emperors after him. His sister was Queen Chalchiuhnenetzin. Axayacatl was also the uncle of Emperor Cuauhtémoc and the father of Emperors Moctezuma II and Cuitláhuac.
Becoming the Ruler
When he was young, Axayacatl showed great skill in battles. This made powerful leaders like Nezahualcoyotl and Tlacaelel I notice him.
Because of his military talent, he was chosen to become the next ruler when Moctezuma I died in 1469. This decision surprised his two older brothers, Tizoc and Ahuitzotl.
During his time as ruler, the famous Great Sun Stone was carved. This huge stone, also known as the Aztec Calendar, is a very important piece of Aztec art. In 1475, a big earthquake hit Tenochtitlan, destroying many homes.
Battles and His Final Years
Axayacatl spent most of his twelve years as ruler proving his strength in battles. He led successful military actions against nearby cities.
In 1473, he invaded Tlatelolco, a neighboring city. He defeated its ruler, Moquihuix, and put a military leader in charge. After this, the people of Tlatelolco had no say in Aztec decisions.
In 1474, he also won battles against the Matlatzinca people in the Toluca Valley. However, in 1476, he faced a major defeat. He was beaten by the Tarascans from Michoacán.
This loss was a big blow to Axayacatl's reputation. It was the first major defeat for the Aztecs up to that time. Even though he had some smaller victories later, this defeat made him seem less powerful.
Axayacatl became very sick in 1480, even though he was still young. He passed away a year later in 1481. His brother Tizoc then became the next Emperor.
Axayacatl the Poet
Besides being a warrior and ruler, Axayacatl was also a poet. He wrote two known poems.
- The first poem, Ycuic Axayayatzin, means "Song of Axayacatl." In this poem, he defended himself against his brothers and other critics.
- The second poem, Huehue cuicatl, means "Song of the Ancients." He wrote this poem as a sad reflection after his defeat in Michoacán.
See also
In Spanish: Axayácatl para niños
