How did the Aztec apply their engineering skills to the challenges of living on an island?
The Aztecs, also known as the Mexica, were a Mesoamerican civilization that flourished in central Mexico during the 14th to 16th centuries. They faced numerous challenges while establishing their capital city, Tenochtitlan, on an island in Lake Texcoco. To overcome these challenges, the Aztecs applied their engineering skills in several ways:
1. Chinampas: The Aztecs developed a unique agricultural system called chinampas. These were artificial islands created by building up layers of mud, reeds, and soil in shallow areas of the lake. They used engineering techniques to establish a network of canals and dikes, creating small rectangular plots of fertile land for farming. Chinampas allowed the Aztecs to grow sufficient food to support their population, overcoming the limited arable land available on the island.
2. Dike and Causeway: To connect the island with the mainland, the Aztecs constructed a dike or causeway known as the "Great Speaker" or "Iztapalapa Causeway." This engineering marvel was constructed using aqueducts, small bridges, and solid fill to provide a sturdy and sustainable connection to the mainland. This causeway facilitated the transportation of goods, people, and military movements, strengthening the Aztec Empire.
3. Aqueducts and Canals: The Aztecs were skilled in the construction of aqueducts and canals. They designed a sophisticated system of aqueducts to bring fresh water from distant mountain springs to their city. By transporting water through hollowed-out logs or channels lined with clay, the Aztecs ensured a constant water supply for drinking, bathing, and sanitation on the island. They also used canals for transportation, trade, and drainage purposes, effectively managing the water levels on the island.
4. Floating Gardens: In addition to chinampas, the Aztecs made use of floating gardens called "xochimilco." These were rafts made of intertwined reeds and aquatic plants, anchored to the lakebed using long poles. The Aztecs were able to cultivate crops on these floating gardens, further increasing their agricultural output on the island.
By employing these engineering techniques, the Aztecs successfully adapted to the challenges of living on an island. Their innovative agricultural systems, magnificent causeways, water management techniques, and floating gardens not only met their basic survival needs but also enabled the growth and prosperity of their civilization.