How did the Pre-Columbian civilizations of the Aztecs and Incas adapt to their environment?

Answer 1

Both of these civilizations were in some adverse climate that we would difficult to live with. However, they found a way to adapt into their environment. The Inca civilization lived high above the clouds, in the mountain ranges of the Andes Mountains, where there is a lack of oxygen in the air. Many would find this unbearable and would have a hard time trying to do our daily activities. The Incas developed a large lung capacity and since there was high elevation, of course it would be cold, so their bodies grew stout and short, where the body warmth would be compacted inside of them, much like Eskimos. The Aztecs had to deal with their own adaptation. They lived near lakes and swamps. Swamps are not the best arable land for crops, so what the Aztecs came up with is the Chinampas. Like terrace farming that other advanced civilizations had (Feudal Japan, for one), Chinampas were island gardens were beds of aquatic weeds would be tied together, mud and earth placed in frames and rooted to the lake floor. These Chinampas would be the source for much of their needed food, such as fruits, beans, vegetables, etc.

Answer 2

Both the Aztecs and Incas adapted to their environments through sophisticated agricultural techniques such as terracing and irrigation to maximize food production on challenging terrain. They also built extensive networks of roads and trade routes to facilitate communication and resource exchange within their empires. Additionally, both civilizations incorporated religious beliefs and practices that were closely tied to elements of their natural surroundings, enhancing their spiritual connection to the land.