Pre-Colombian

  • Period: 1000 to

    Aztec Civilisation

  • 1200

    The Valley of Mexico is first settled by migrating tribes

    The valley was settled by the Chichimecs, Tepanecs, Mexica (where the name Mexico originates) and Acolhua tribes.
  • 1345

    Founding of Tenochtitlan

    Tenochtitlan is founded on Lake Texcoco
  • Period: 1345 to 1521

    Height

    The Aztec empire thrives in modern-day Mexico.
  • 1428

    Triple Alliance

    The "Triple Alliance" is formed between Tenochtitlan, Texcoco and Tlacopan.
  • Period: 1486 to 1520

    Reign of Motecuhzoma II

    Motecuhzoma II was the final independent ruler of the Aztecs before Spanish colonisation.
  • 1519

    Montezuma meets Cortes

    He receives Cortes at the capital of the empire, Tenochtitlan.
  • Jun 30, 1520

    Montezuma dies

    Death of Aztec ruler Motecuhzoma II.
  • Aug 18, 1521

    Fall of Tenochtitlan

    Tenochtitlan falls to the forces of Hernando Cortes.
  • 1522

    Refounding

    Tenochtitlan is refounded as Mexico City, the capital of New Spain.