tecuhtli
Quick Summary
The term tecuhtli referred to a commoner who had captured four enemy warriors in combat. This achievement granted them promotion to the rank of tecuhtli, entry into military orders, assignment of a private estate with serfs, and the role of an elite professional army. Children of pipiltin (nobles) and tecuhtli could attend the calmecac, a religious college, for training as priests or administrators. The calmecac was also accessible to some commoners, including wealthy merchants and craftsmen. This system allowed for vertical social mobility, particularly through military success.1
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