Xochitl (Toltec) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Xochitl |
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| Empress of the Toltecs | |
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| Reign | 877-916 |
| Predecessor | Tecpancaltzin Iztaccaltzin |
| Successor | Cē Ācatl Topiltzin QuetzalCoatl |
| Born | Before 877 Toltec Empire |
| Died | 916 Toltec Empire |
| Father | Papantzin |
| Mother | Unknown |
| Religion | Toltec religion |
Xochitl (pronounced "SHO-cheet-l") was a powerful Toltec Queen who lived a long time ago, from about 877 to 916. She was the wife of Emperor Tecpancaltzin Iztaccaltzin. Many stories about her are like legends, so historians are not completely sure about every detail of her life. Most of what we know comes from the writings of an ancient historian named Fernando de Alva Ixtlilxochitl.
The Story of Queen Xochitl
Xochitl became a partner of the Toltec Emperor Tecpancaltzin. They had a son together. The Emperor's first wife had only daughters, so when she passed away, Xochitl became the recognized queen. Her son, named Topiltzin-Meconetzin, became the next in line to rule.
When Xochitl was older, a big civil war broke out in the Toltec Empire. A civil war is a war between groups of people from the same country. Queen Xochitl was very brave. She called on other women to join her in the fight. She even created and led a special group of soldiers made entirely of women. Sadly, she died fighting on the battlefield during this war. Her son, Topiltzin, was the last Toltec king. He was overthrown during the civil war. Both Tecpancaltzin and Xochitl were killed in battle during the Toltecs' final stand at a place called Tultitlan.
Xochitl in Art and History
Xochitl has been shown in famous artworks. One well-known painting is El descubrimiento del pulque (which means "The Discovery of Pulque"). Mexican artist José Obregón finished this painting in 1869. Obregón painted in a classic style that was popular back then.
The painting shows Xochitl and Tecpancaltzin. It is based on the historian Ixtlilxochitl's description of Xochitl. In the story, Xochitl's father, Papantzin, was a Toltec noble. He grew maguey plants, which are also called agave plants. Xochitl brought a new drink to Emperor Tecpancaltzin. This drink, called pulque, was made from the sweet liquid inside the maguey plant. The painting became a symbol of Mexican pride during that time.
More recently, Xochitl is honored in a famous art piece called The Dinner Party by American artist Judy Chicago. This artwork celebrates 999 important women throughout history. Xochitl's name is included on the "Heritage Floor" of this special art installation.
