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Aztec society was traditionally divided intosocial classes. They became sophisticated once theMexica people settled and began to build theAztec Empire. The class structure was so elaborate that it impressed the Spanish almost as much asAztec architecture.
The inaugural ruler,Acamapichtli, was selected due to his purported Toltec lineage, a heritage eagerly embraced by the Mexicans. His children formed the upper class in the society, called the nobles orpipiltin (singularpilli). This established an enduring tradition wherein future monarchs were consistently chosen from the ranks of thepipiltin, solidifying their role as the aristocratic elite within Aztec society.[1]
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Ruling positions were not hereditary, but preference was given to those in the "royal families." Originallypipiltin status was nothereditary, but as the sons ofpillis had access to better resources and education it was easier for them to becomepillis. Later, the class system took on hereditary aspects.[2]
Nobles possessed various privileges, including enhanced educational opportunities and the freedom to wear elaborate attire and embellish their residences. They were permitted to assume significant governmental roles, although not all held positions of authority; some pursued careers as craftsmen or served as palace servants. Advancement within the ranks was possible for those who demonstrated exceptional service.[citation needed]
The second class were themacehualtin (people), originallypeasants. Eduardo Noguera[3] estimates that in later stages only 20% of the population was dedicated toagriculture, andfood production. The other 80% of society werewarriors,artisans and traders.[4]
Slaves ortlacotin constituted an important class. Aztecs could become slaves because of debts, as acriminal punishment, or as war captives.[5] While some slaves were punished as criminals or prisoners of war, others sold themselves or their children into slavery due to economic hardship. Slaves could free themselves by repaying their purchase price. They could marry, own property and possessions (which could even include other slaves), and their children were born free.[6]
Travelingmerchants calledpochteca were a small, but important class as they not only facilitatedcommerce but also communicated vital information across the empire and beyond its borders. They were often employed as spies.[7]
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