Which of the following was a characteristic of Aztec society?

The characteristic of Aztec society that stands out is its complex class system. The Aztec civilization was hierarchical and organized into distinct social classes, including nobles, priests, commoners, and enslaved people. At the top were the ruling class and high-ranking priests who held significant political and religious power. Below them were the commoners who worked as farmers, artisans, and merchants. This intricate social structure allowed for efficient governance and organization within the empire, fostering various roles that contributed to the society's economic and cultural development.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent Aztec society. The structure was predominantly patriarchal, with power largely held by men. While there were notable women in Aztec society, such as those who could inherit property, the overall governance and social hierarchy were not matriarchal. Additionally, the Aztecs were primarily a land-based civilization rather than a maritime culture; their economic activities and trade routes were mainly focused on terrestrial routes through the vast Mesoamerican landscape. Lastly, while individualism does exist in most societies to some degree, Aztec culture placed a stronger emphasis on community and collective identity, aligning with their values of honor, duty, and social hierarchies rather than personal independence or individual achievements.