Tepanec facts for kids
The Tepanecs were an ancient people who lived in Mesoamerica. They arrived in the Valley of Mexico around the late 1100s or early 1200s. The Tepanecs were related to the Aztecs (also known as the Mexica) and the Acolhua. These groups all spoke the Nahuatl language and shared similar gods, though each tribe had its own special traditions.
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Who Were the Tepanecs?
The name "Tepanecas" comes from their mythical first city, Tepanohuayan. This name means "the passing by." Their name is also linked to a stone symbol, meaning "over the stones." The lands they controlled were called Tepanecapan, which means "land of the Tepanecs."
The Tepanecs were supposedly welcomed to the Valley of Mexico by a ruler named King Xolotl. They settled on the western side of Lake Texcoco.
Rise to Power
Under their leader, Acolnahuacatl, the Tepanecs took control of Azcapotzalco. This was a very important city.
In the early 1300s, a powerful leader named Tezozomoc made the Tepanecs very strong. They controlled almost all of the Valley of Mexico. They also ruled parts of the Toluca and Morelos valleys. Stories say that Tezozomoc lived to be over 100 years old. He was known for being a great general and a wise leader.
The End of Tepanec Rule
Tezozomoc died in 1426. After his death, his sons Tayatzin and Maxtla fought for the throne. Maxtla likely poisoned Tayatzin to become ruler.
In 1428, Maxtla was defeated by the new Aztec Triple Alliance. This powerful alliance included the Mexicas from Tenochtitlan, the Acolhua from Texcoco, and even some Tepanecs from Tlacopan.
After this, Tlacopan became the main Tepanec city. However, Tenochtitlan and Texcoco grew much larger and more famous than Tlacopan.
Tepanecs and the Seven Caves
Ancient stories say that the Tepanec people were one of seven tribes. These tribes began a long journey from a place called Chicomoztoc, which means "The Seven Caves." No one is sure exactly where Chicomoztoc was.
Because of their strong army, the Tepanecs settled in one of the best areas. Here, they founded Azcapotzalco. This city became the main center of their territory, known as Tepanecapan.
Tepanecs Today
When Spanish explorers arrived in the Valley of Mexico, the Tepanec tribe was part of the Triple Alliance. They were no longer a separate main group. We know about them today from old stories and writings from before the Spanish arrived. These were collected by historians later on.
See also
In Spanish: Tepanecas para niños
