Cuauhtlequetzqui facts for kids
Cuauhtlequetzqui (pronounced Kwow-tleh-KETZ-kee) is an Aztec name that means rising eagle. Several important people in Aztec history shared this name.
The most famous person named Cuauhtlequetzqui was born around 1250 to 1260. His father also had the same name, which can sometimes be a bit confusing! Some stories even say he was the very first leader of the Mexica people (the Aztecs) to leave their legendary homeland, Aztlan. One historian, Chimalpain, wrote that he ruled from 1116 to 1153.
Who Was Cuauhtlequetzqui?
Cuauhtlequetzqui was an important leader whose life is mixed with many legends. His first known action was during a war in 1281 against the Texcaltepeca-Malinalcas. As a brave war-leader, he became famous for capturing Copil, the leader of the enemy.
In one legend, Copil was the son of Malinalxochitl, who was the sister of Huitzilopochtli, a very important Aztec god. The story says Malinalxochitl was left behind in Malinalco and wanted revenge. Her son, Copil, was supposed to help her get it. But when Copil's plan failed at Chapoltepec in 1281, this event became a symbol for the founding of the Aztec capital. It also helped explain why the Tenochca people (a group of Aztecs) became so powerful over other groups.
Cuauhtlequetzqui's Rule and Legacy
After the victory at Chapoltepec, Cuauhtlequetzqui was named the lord of that area. He ruled for only five years. He was killed in a final battle when warriors from Teotenanco tried to take back the forest area, but they were not successful. Even though his rule was short, his actions and the legends around him were very important in Aztec history.
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