What are the similarities and differences between the Spanish and Aztec societies and cultures before the conquest of Mexico?

When examining the Spanish and Aztec societies prior to the conquest of Mexico, we can identify several key similarities and differences.

Similarities:

1. Economic Structures: Both societies had intricate economic systems. The Aztecs engaged in widespread trade, using commodities like cacao and textiles as currency, while the Spanish were developing their own trade routes and mercantilist practices.
2. Religious Practices: Religion played a central role in both cultures. The Aztecs practiced polytheism, worshipping a variety of gods and incorporating rituals like human sacrifices. The Spanish, primarily Catholic, were deeply religious, emphasizing the importance of their faith in governance and daily life.
3. Social Hierarchies: Both societies had pronounced social hierarchies. The Aztecs had a structured society with nobles, priests, and commoners, whereas the Spanish society was also stratified, with nobility and a clear distinction between classes, including clergy and the lower classes.

Differences:

1. Cultural Values: Aztec culture highly valued warfare and conquest for the sake of expanding their territory and honoring their gods through sacrifices. In contrast, the Spanish had a more varied cultural focus, heavily influenced by Renaissance ideals and a drive for exploration and expansion for wealth and land.
2. Political Organization: The Aztec Empire was a powerful, centralized state with an emperor at its head, while Spanish society was comprised of various kingdoms and regions with their own systems of governance before unification under a monarchy.
3. Technological Advancements: The Aztecs had remarkable achievements in agricultural technology, creating chinampas for farming, and were skilled in arts and crafts. The Spanish, on the other hand, had advanced maritime technology and weaponry that ultimately played a critical role in their conquests.

These similarities and differences illustrate the complexity of both cultures before the historic interactions that would lead to significant changes in their societies.