Canoes have long occupied a special place in the tradition of the indigenous tribes of the Americas, particularly in the northern half. All along the Pacific Northwest, masterfully crafted canoes of many shapes, sizes and forms, were the main mode of transportation until long after European colonization. Adding to this rich history, a team of archaeologists, neighbors and members of the Waccamaw Siouan Tribe successfully recovered a nearly 1,000-year-old canoe from the depths of Lake Waccamaw in south-easte

Updated 17 April, 2023 - 20:59 Robbie Mitchell

The Macuahuitl: An Aztec Warrior’s Lethal and Sacred Weapon (Video)

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The Macuahuitl was an ancient Aztec weapon that could be used by both shamans and warriors. It was a devastating weapon that was feared by those who encountered it on the battlefield. Made of obsidian and wood, the Macuahuitl was a sharp and deadly weapon that was designed to maim and hurt rather than kill outright. The Aztecs used it to capture their enemies and sacrifice them later to their gods. The obsidian blades on the Macuahuitl were ultra-sharp and could easily slice through flesh, leaving behind exposed areas for infection. This weapon was not only a tool of war but also a symbol of Aztec culture and religion. What’s the story behind the Macuahuitl and how effective was it as a weapon of war?

Top image: Aztec warrior holding a macuahuitl. Source: Ivan / Adobe Stock.

By Robbie Mitchell

Comments

Pete Wagner's picture

Pete Wagner wrote on 18 April, 2023 - 02:11

Maybe they were NOT violent, but used sharp implements where sharp implements worked well. Where’s the hard evidence?

Nobody gets paid to tell the truth.

Robbie Mitchell's picture

Robbie

I’m a graduate of History and Literature from The University of Manchester in England and a total history geek. Since a young age, I’ve been obsessed with history. The weirder the better. I spend my days working as a freelance... Read More