Aztec Wealth vs. Inca Wealth

Attribute	Aztec Wealth	Inca Wealth
Sources of Wealth	Trade, tribute, agriculture, and warfare	Agriculture, tribute, and labor tribute
Use of Currency	Used cocoa beans as currency	Did not have a formal currency system
Storage of Wealth	Stored wealth in palaces and temples	Stored wealth in state warehouses and temples
Role of Gold and Silver	Used for decorative purposes and as tribute	Used for decorative purposes and religious offerings

Introduction

When discussing the ancient civilizations of the Americas, the Aztec and Inca empires are often at the forefront of the conversation. Both societies were incredibly wealthy in their own right, but their wealth was derived from different sources and had distinct attributes. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Aztec wealth and Inca wealth, exploring the ways in which these two civilizations amassed and utilized their riches.

Economic Foundations

The Aztec economy was primarily based on agriculture, with the majority of the population engaged in farming activities. The Aztecs were skilled farmers who utilized advanced irrigation techniques to grow crops such as maize, beans, and squash. They also engaged in trade, both within their empire and with neighboring societies, exchanging goods such as textiles, pottery, and precious metals.

On the other hand, the Inca economy was centered around a system of state-controlled agriculture known as the vertical archipelago. This system involved the cultivation of crops at different altitudes, allowing the Inca to produce a wide variety of foods. The Inca also had an extensive road network that facilitated trade and communication throughout their empire.

Sources of Wealth

Aztec wealth was largely derived from tribute payments made by conquered peoples. The Aztecs would demand tribute in the form of goods, labor, and precious metals from the regions they had subjugated. This tribute system allowed the Aztecs to amass great wealth and maintain control over their empire.

In contrast, Inca wealth was generated through a system of labor taxation known as the mit'a. The Inca would require able-bodied men to work on state projects such as road construction, agricultural terracing, and mining. In exchange for their labor, these workers would receive food, clothing, and other necessities.

Use of Wealth

The Aztecs used their wealth to fund elaborate building projects, such as the construction of temples, palaces, and aqueducts. They also invested heavily in the arts, producing intricate pottery, textiles, and jewelry. Additionally, the Aztecs used their riches to support a large military force that allowed them to expand their empire through conquest.

Similarly, the Inca used their wealth to finance impressive architectural feats, including the construction of massive stone structures such as Machu Picchu and Sacsayhuaman. They also invested in infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and irrigation systems. The Inca elite adorned themselves with elaborate gold and silver jewelry, showcasing their wealth and status.

Legacy of Wealth

Despite their wealth and power, both the Aztec and Inca empires eventually fell to Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. The Spanish invaders plundered the riches of these civilizations, sending vast quantities of gold and silver back to Europe. The wealth of the Aztecs and Incas played a significant role in funding the Spanish Empire and shaping the course of world history.

Today, the legacy of Aztec and Inca wealth can be seen in the archaeological remains of their cities and monuments. The intricate artwork, sophisticated engineering, and advanced agricultural techniques of these civilizations continue to inspire awe and admiration. The wealth of the Aztecs and Incas may have been lost to history, but their contributions to human civilization endure.