Show pictures of ancient Aztec and Toltec ruins. Tell of the people who came from the north and settled in the marsh near Lake Tezcuco.
Speak of their great works—temples, aqueducts, dykes and causeways. Refer to evidences of culture as shown in ruins of buildings, fountains, baths, tapestries, etc. What was their religion? Compare them with the Indians of northern forest regions.
What were the motives of the Spaniards in the conquest of Mexico? Describe the landing of Cortez and his army and let the pupil infer the difficulties and dangers encountered on their way into the country; the hot climate, shifting sands, tropical marshes, slippery precipices, gorges with swollen streams, and the mountains to be crossed. Through a pass they went in single file into a sterile region where there was no water: through a second defile, a valley, and then another and more difficult gorge until the summit reached, they descended into the interior valleys. Here the Spaniards rested for four days, near the desert infested with wolves and other wild animals. Tell of Cortez’ attack on the great city—his repulse—the siege, etc. Show that the results were largely determined by the geography of the country.
Cortez conquered because the country being broken up by mountains, plateaus and valleys naturally divided the people into many small tribes, some speaking different languages, who were under forced subjection to a federation consisting of warrior bandits from the stronger cities.
Give the result of the conquest to the Mexicans, and bring their history down to the present day if desired.
What class of people now inhabit Mexico? What regions are most densely populated? What is the population? Compare with the population of the United States.
What is the form of government? Where are the largest cities? Where the greatest seaports? Describe the modifications of surface structure since the conquest. (Lake Tezcuco has receded from the city two and one half miles. How?) Tell of the floating gardens.
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