The ancient Aztecs used symbols to maintain an arithmetic system...
New research has shown that the Aztecs used symbols such as the hands, hearts and arrows to maintain an arithmetic system that was far more complex than previously understood.
The Aztecs, whose empire in central America was toppled by Spanish invaders, has long been recognised for its sophistication in architecture, engineering, astronomy and other fields. The new research has confirmed that arithmetic can be added to the list.
The researchers examined hundreds of drawings in two manuscripts dating between 1540 and 1544 that were reportedly used to document agricultural properties by the Aztec people in the city state of Tepetlaoztoc, which was near the modern day Mexico City.
Contributor's Note
A much more sophisticated system than previously thought.
