Definition of Warrior Jaguar and Eagle

The military context of the Aztec culture is known through the codices, the works of art and the chronicles of the Spanish conquerors. Thus, we know that the Aztec warriors wore spectacular clothes for battle and that they were highly specialized.

The jaguar warrior or ocelopilli

In the peoples of ancient Mexico, the jaguar was an animal that symbolized two fundamental ideas: the dark world and the luminous world. The cult of this animal became manifest in the military field.

Warriors of this rank were the elite of the army and in today's terminology would be known as special forces of the military establishment. These warriors wore a helmet that mimicked the appearance of the jaguar and were feared by their enemies for their ferocity and courage in combat.

Among its weapons, the use of obsidian spears stands out (obsidian is a rock of volcanic origin that is extremely sharp and for this reason at present this material is used for the manufacturing of surgical scalpels).

The ocelopilli bravely faced the conquerors and according to the chronicles in one of the battles in Tecnochtilan they annihilated practically all the Spanish troops.

The Eagle Warrior or Cuauhpilli

For the Aztecs, the golden eagle symbolized the Sun and whoever reached this rank in the army was considered an especially strong and brave warrior. He belonged to the upper class of society and was dressed in a helmet on his head with appearance of eagle.

Its main mission consisted of directing the troops in the combats. For the Aztecs, the cuauhpilli were messengers of the divinities. Like the golden eagle, the warrior has to stand out above the others.

Aztec warriors are a source of inspiration for tattoo fans

The Aztec military forces were highly specialized and had the support for of the state. In this sense, there were buildings where warrior rituals were performed, military schools, military courts and festivities dedicated exclusively to the army. A warrior was considered brave if he obtained the greatest number of captives in the war (each capture of prisoners was accompanied by a material reward).

Members of the Aztec army began their training as soldiers at the age of seven, and only a select few eventually became jaguar or eagle warriors. In addition to jaguars and eagles, there were other categories in the army: cuachic, coyote, and tzitzimitl. On the other hand, the warriors of the Otomí people fought as allies of the Aztecs.

In the world of tattoo Aztec warriors have a special attraction, since their images They are associated with courage and bravery.

Photo: Fotolia - frenta