Tlaxcaltecs III

1450-1600 CE

From 1450 to 1600 CE, the Tlaxcaltecs proved that defiance could outlast empires — surrounded by Aztec tributaries, their mountain republic endured the Flower Wars that were meant to weaken them for conquest, their warriors capturing sacrificial victims to throw back Tenochtitlan's mockery. When bearded strangers arrived from the sea, Tlaxcala made the choice that would be remembered as either wisdom or treachery: Spanish allies against Aztec enemies, their reward exemption from tribute and a pride that never forgot they had chosen their fate.