The vast majority of the Aztec population belonged to the peasant class, known as macehualtin. This group formed the foundation of Aztec society, providing essential labor for agriculture and other economic activities. Estimates suggest that approximately 90-95% of the Aztec population were peasants.
The prevalence of this class was critical to the functioning of the Aztec empire. They cultivated the land, ensuring food production to support the ruling classes, the priesthood, and the military. Furthermore, they were obligated to provide tribute in the form of goods and labor to the state. This system enabled the empire’s expansion and maintenance of its infrastructure.
