What were the major trade routes in the Aztec Empire?

The Aztec Empire, also known as the Triple Alliance, was a powerful Mesoamerican civilization that flourished from the 14th to the 16th century. They had an extensive trade network that connected various regions within their empire and beyond. The major trade routes in the Aztec Empire included:

1. The Maritime Trade Route: The Aztecs had access to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, allowing them to engage in maritime trade. They had a well-developed system of canals and waterways that connected their capital city, Tenochtitlan, to the coast. This route facilitated the transportation of goods such as salt, fish, shells, and other marine resources.

2. The Long-Distance Trade Route: This route connected the Aztec Empire with other Mesoamerican civilizations, such as the Maya and the Zapotec. It extended from the Gulf Coast to the Pacific Coast, passing through various cities and trading centers. This route allowed for the exchange of goods such as cacao, cotton, obsidian, jade, and precious metals.

3. The Northern Trade Route: The Aztecs maintained trade relations with the northern regions of their empire, including present-day Mexico and the southwestern United States. This route facilitated the exchange of goods such as turquoise, feathers, pottery, and textiles.

4. The Southern Trade Route: The Aztecs also had trade connections with the southern regions of their empire, including present-day Guatemala and El Salvador. This route allowed for the exchange of goods such as cacao, cotton, rubber, and tropical fruits.

5. The Tribute Trade Route: The Aztecs imposed tribute on the regions they conquered, and this tribute was often paid in the form of goods. The tribute trade route involved the transportation of these goods from the conquered regions to the Aztec capital. This route played a crucial role in sustaining the Aztec economy and ensuring the flow of resources within the empire.

Overall, the Aztec Empire had a complex and extensive trade network that encompassed both land and sea routes. This network facilitated the exchange of a wide range of goods, contributing to the economic prosperity and cultural diversity of the empire.