How Family Betrayal Sparked War Between Aztec Cities
In 1473, Tlatelolco's King Moquihuix plotted against his brother-in-law, Tenochtitlan's ruler Axayácatl. Warned, Axayácatl foiled the surprise attack. After a battle dubbed "Dirty War," Moquihuix refused peace, leading Axayácatl to formally declare war, sealing Tlatelolco's fate.
Forget neighbourly disputes over fences, this was ancient Aztec warfare on a shocking scale, fuelled by bitter rivalry, family betrayal, and a lust for power! New details emerge of the brutal clash between the twin island cities of Tenochtitlan and Tlatelolco in 1473, revealing a web of intrigue that would make a modern soap opera blush.
Once practically brothers, the Tenochcas and Tlatelolcas shared a heritage, living side-by-side on islands separated only by a narrow five-metre canal. While Tenochtitlan held the reins of power, Tlatelolco boasted the biggest, most bustling market in the realm – a treasure trove where you could find anything from exotic bird feathers to unfortunate slaves from distant lands.
But beneath the surface of this thriving metropolis, resentment festered.
