What was the primary language of the Aztecs?

Discover the Mesoamerica Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ace your exam effortlessly!

The primary language of the Aztecs was Nahuatl. Nahuatl is a Uto-Aztecan language that served as the main language of the Aztec Empire and is still spoken by over a million people today in central Mexico. It played an essential role in the cultural and administrative aspects of the Aztec civilization, serving as a medium of communication for governance, trade, and literature. The use of Nahuatl allowed for a rich body of poetry, prose, and historical documentation, which has provided invaluable insights into the society and beliefs of the Aztecs.

In contrast, the Maya language refers to a family of languages spoken by the Maya peoples, distinct from the Aztec culture. Quechua was the language of the Inca Empire and primarily spoken in Peru, not related to the Aztec civilization of central Mexico. Mixtec is another language from a different cultural group in Mesoamerica, primarily associated with the Mixtec people of Oaxaca, which also does not pertain to the Aztecs. Thus, Nahuatl's central role in the Aztec society underscores its significance as the correct answer.

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