What kind of fighters were the Aztecs known to be during their golden age?

The Aztecs were renowned for their fearless and organized approaches to warfare during their golden age, which spanned from the 14th to the early 16th century. Their military success was largely due to their strategic military organization, which included a well-defined hierarchy, specialized roles, and tactics that integrated a variety of combat techniques.

Aztec warriors were rigorously trained from a young age, and their society placed significant value on martial prowess, fostering a culture that revered military achievement. They utilized large armies composed of elite warriors known as the "Eagle Warriors" and "Jaguar Warriors," who were often deployed in campaigns to expand their territory and power. This organized system allowed for effective coordination on the battlefield, making them formidable opponents against neighboring states.

In contrast, while the Aztecs did engage in ritualistic warfare, such practices were often for capturing enemies for sacrifice rather than conventional military conflicts. They were not particularly known for archery as the dominant aspect of their fighting style, and their lack of horses meant they were not skilled horsemen in the same way as some other cultures, such as the Spanish Conquistadors. Thus, being recognized as fearless and organized accurately captures their military identity during this period.