What type of government did the Aztecs primarily have?

The Aztecs primarily had a theocratic government, where religious leaders played a crucial role in governance and the state was closely intertwined with religion. In this system, the emperor was often considered a divine figure or representative of the gods, wielding both political and spiritual authority. The Aztecs believed their rulers were ordained by the deities to maintain order and ensure the prosperity of their society through rituals and offerings.

This theocratic structure was evident in the significant emphasis placed on religious practices and the pivotal role that priests had in society. They not only conducted ceremonies and managed temples but also influenced decisions related to warfare and the welfare of the state. The Aztec society therefore demonstrated that religion was not merely a personal belief system but was deeply embedded in political life, distinguishing it from other forms of government such as monarchy, democracy, or dictatorship, where the emphasis on religious authority is not as pronounced.