What is the Difference Between Aztec and Mayan?

The Aztec and Mayan civilizations were two distinct cultures that existed in Mesoamerica during different periods of time. Here are some key differences between the two:

1. Location: The Aztecs lived in central Mexico from the 14th to 16th centuries, with their capital in Tenochtitlan (modern-day Mexico City). The Maya people lived in southern Mexico and northern Central America, with their civilization's height between 250 and 900 AD.
2. Political Structure: The Mayans lived in city-states, each with its own independent ruler, often engaging in warfare, alliances, and trade with each other. The Aztecs, on the other hand, had an empire ruled by a single Emperor.
3. Language: The Aztecs were Nahuatl-speaking people, while the Maya spoke a variety of languages, including Maya, Yucatec, and Huastec.
4. Writing System: The Maya had a written language that was phonetic and inscribed stone monuments with text on the histories of dynasties. The Aztecs did not have a phonetic writing system but used pictograms and glyphs for documentation.
5. Trading and Navigation: The Maya were sea traders and great maritime people, while the Aztecs were more land and lake-oriented.
6. Art Styles: The Maya created some of what we would call 'realistic' representations of people, while Aztec art styles were different.
7. Religion and Mythology: The Aztecs were more warrior-like with stronger religious and mythological principles.

Despite these differences, both civilizations shared some similarities, such as practicing astronomy, using mathematics, and having the concept of zero. Additionally, both civilizations valued trade and had important merchant classes.

Comparative Table: Aztec vs Mayan

Here is a table summarizing the differences between the Aztec and Mayan civilizations: