The founding year of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, was in which year?

• A. 1200 CE
• B. 1325 CE
• C. 1428 CE
• D. 1521 CE

Answer: (B)

The founding year of Tenochtitlan marks the moment the Aztec capital first took shape and became a political center in central Mexico. Historians place the city’s origin around 1325 CE, when the Mexica established themselves on an island in Lake Texcoco after migrating into the Valley of Mexico. This date comes from early Aztec chronicles that recount the journey from their homeland and the sign—the eagle perched on a cactus—that guided them to settle where the city would grow. Understanding this founding date helps distinguish the city’s birth from later milestones: the alliance formed in the 15th century that united several city-states for expansion, and the year the Spaniards finally toppled the city in 1521. So, 1325 CE is the year referenced as the founding of Tenochtitlan.