Identify a technological advancement that the Aztec used to make Tenochtitlán accessible to the surrounding regions.
One technological advancement that the Aztecs used to make Tenochtitlán accessible to the surrounding regions was the construction of causeways or raised roads called "calzadas." These causeways were elevated above the surrounding water and marshlands and allowed for easier transportation and communication between Tenochtitlán and the neighboring areas.
The most famous and significant causeway constructed by the Aztecs was the "Causeway of Iztapalapa," also known as the "Great Causeway." This causeway connected Tenochtitlán, situated on an island in Lake Texcoco, to the mainland and extended for several miles. It was a complex engineering achievement, with multiple sections built atop layers of stone and lake sediments to reinforce its stability.
The Causeway of Iztapalapa facilitated the movement of goods, services, and people between Tenochtitlán and the surrounding regions, making the city more accessible. It served as a vital transportation route for military expeditions, trade caravans, and pilgrims traveling to religious sites. Additionally, the causeway incorporated small bridges and canals, enabling the passage of boats and canoes that played a crucial role in the Aztec transportation network.
The construction of causeways not only connected Tenochtitlán with neighboring communities but also served as a testament to the Aztec's architectural and engineering prowess. This technological advancement allowed for improved communication and facilitated the flow of goods, cultural exchange, and military endeavors, making Tenochtitlán a more accessible and interconnected city within the Aztec empire.