Precursors of Aztec Tenochtitlan

Timeline

1. c. 1325–1330Island in the center of Lake Texcoco · MexicoAccording to legend, the Mexica founded Tenochtitlan on an island in the lake under divine instruction, adopting the cactus and serpent as the city emblem, and began building causeways connecting the lakeshore with surrounding settlements.
2. c. 1331–1337Tenochtitlan urban area · MexicoThe Mexica expanded chinampas to grow maize, beans, and chili peppers, while building stone-based temples and noble residences; the city's population and handicraft industries gradually grew.
3. c. 1335–1340Azcapotzalco · Valley of MexicoTenochtitlan formed a loose alliance with Texcoco and Tlacopan, jointly paying tribute and performing military service for the Tepanec hegemon Azcapotzalco, laying the groundwork for later rebellion against the overlord and the establishment of the Triple Alliance.