Free School for Everyone

To build the city they wanted, they knew that they would need many engineers, builders, and traders. This required an educated population. To solve this problem, the Aztecs set up a system of public schools. Attendance was mandatory for all Aztec children, even girls and slaves.

The Aztecs were the only people up to that time in history to have free schools that every child had to attend.

All-Girls School

There were three different schools: one for girls, and two for boys.

Girls learned about religion and were trained to be good wives and mothers. They learned how to cook, sew, and how to care for their children. They also learned how to make beautiful woven textiles.

Sons of the Upper Class

Sons of the upper class went to the nobles’ school. Sons of wealthy traders and merchants also went to this school. They studied law, writing (hieroglyphics), medicine, �engineering and building, interpretation of dreams and omens, and self-expression. They also learned about their history and religious beliefs.

It was a tough school. The boys were humiliated and tormented to toughen them up.

Sons of Commoners �and Slaves

The other boys’ school was for sons of commoners. Its main goal was to train warriors and farmers. Boys had to sleep under skimpy blankets. They were given hard bread to eat.

The commoners’ school also taught history, religion, manners, correct behavior, and important rituals, along with singing and dancing.

Specialized Professions

No matter which school an Aztec boy attended, he was trained to be a specialist. Boys studied how to be farmers, traders, engineers, builders, astronomers, and doctors.

Students who became builders and engineers designed and built the amazing Aztec cities, including the capital city of Tenochtitlan, located on the swampy shores of Lake Texcoco.