Which of the following was the highest social class in Aztec society?

In Aztec society, the highest social class was composed of the nobility and priests. This elite group held significant power and influence, controlling political, religious, and economic activities. Nobles were often wealthy landholders and warriors, and they played key roles in governance. They also were responsible for maintaining the religious practices that reinforced the social order.

Priests, as part of this upper echelon, held critical responsibilities for conducting rituals, interpreting omens, and overseeing the worship of deities, which were essential for the society’s stability and continuity. Their elevated status was reinforced by beliefs about divine favor and the need for religious leaders to mediate between the gods and the people.

In contrast, other groups in Aztec society, such as merchants, commoners, and slaves, occupied lower social standing. Merchants, while important for trade and commerce, did not possess the same level of political or religious influence as the nobles and priests. Commoners were the majority, engaging primarily in agriculture and labor, and had limited rights and privileges. Slaves, the lowest social class, were often captives of war or individuals who had fallen into debt, and they had no personal autonomy.

This hierarchical structure emphasizes the importance of both political power