Aztec, Mixtec and Zapotec Armies: v. 239 (Men-at-Arms)

This book conatined more than I expected when I purchased it. Not only does it describe the Aztecs, Zapotecs and Mixtecs, but it also provides some short space to the other native tribes of Mesoamerica such as the Aztecs worst enemies, the Tlaxcalans, or the Huexotzingans.The book is easily accessible, being lucidly and eruditely written by Dr. John D. Pohl, one of the foremost experts on the Mesoamericans in the world. In this book he provides information on topics such as weapons, uniforms, logistics, battle tactics and organization of the Aztec and Zapotec states. He also provides a very brief overview of Aztec military politics and history as well.A few basic maps, photographs and basic copies of Codex art is provided by the author, but one of the main draws of this book is the 8 pages of full colour art by Angus McBride. These help illustrate the appearance of the Aztecs and their allies and enemies. Each colour plate is beautifully drawn and painted, and every figure is vivid and expressive. My favourites include the paintings of the bizarre looking Mixtec priest clutching a human head in his hand, the colourful Priest of Cholula, and Six Monkey Nunuu - the Mixtec Queen.This is a very short (48 page) introduction to the world of the Aztec warriors, and should be purchased by anyone who has an interest in this area and period in time. model painters and re-enactors will also find this book very useful. An Absolute must have!

Gut

The book was shorter than expected, but the work of Angus Mcbride is just awesome, also the information is detailed and to the point.

The book has good information on weapons, armies and Mesoamerican warfare in general. It has got beautiful and quite accurate drawings of several of the uniforms and outfits ancient Mexicans wore.Just a piece of advice: if you are an Aztec history enthusiast, I HUGELY recommend looking for some Mexican authors, who have tried to clear some myths and erratic common beliefs about this culture. They have a vision of the Aztecs not through European-minded eyes. Pablo Moctezuma Barragan, Miguel de Leon-Portilla and Ignacio Romerovargas are good examples. Be warned however, that these authors may display too much nationalism in their texts. All in all, when reading ANYTHING about Prehispanic American civilizations, it is recommended to be critical and apply your own criteria.This is a great book, highly suitable for anyone with an interest of knowing a little about how a really important region of America was like before Spain arrived.

J'ai acheté ce livre uniquement pour les illustrations e Angus McBride. Pour le reste on a des informations complètes dans les livres sur les civilisations mésoaméricaines

A richly illustrated source on the armies of the Mexica Empire from the founding of Tenochtitlan up to the arrival of the Spaniards, who are not mentioned in the book. This makes this a rare book truly only about the Mexican armies, rather than focusing on the experience of the Spaniards that fought them.What little is known of the petty warring states of the Zapotecs and the Mixtecs is also examined. The book is also graced by beautiful color plates by Angus McBride, showing, among others, the warrior priests and the cuahchic shock troops of the Aztecs, and a beautiful Mixtec Queen.