Final answer:
The Aztec culture was advanced with a complex societal structure and religious ceremonies like human sacrifices. They excelled in agriculture and warfare but were eventually conquered by the Spanish, leading to the loss of much of their cultural and historical record.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Aztec culture was rich and complex, centered around the capital of Tenochtitlan. The civilization was known for its societal organization into a caste system of rulers, nobles, priests, merchants, farmers, servants, and slaves. Aztec society was deeply intertwined with religion, including practices such as human sacrifices to appease their gods. The Aztecs were skilled in agriculture, transforming swampy lands into productive agricultural areas and creating chinampas, or floating gardens. Their warriors played a vital role, constantly engaging in warfare to expand their empire and collect tribute. Artisans and traders also formed an important part of Aztec society and economy.
However, the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, especially Hérnan Cortés, marked the downfall of the Aztec Empire. Due to Spanish conquest, allied with disgruntled surrounding peoples and facilitated by the spread of European diseases, the Aztecs were subjugated. Much of their historical record was destroyed or rewritten by the Spaniards, and today, we rely on chronicles, records, and remaining codices to understand their culture.