who were the toltecs

The Toltecs were a Nahuatl-speaking tribe who dominated central Mexico from the 10th to the 12th century CE. Their urban center was Tollan (modern-day Tula), and they are known for their militaristic society, cultural influence, and craftsmanship. The Toltecs sacked and burned the city of Teotihuacán around 900 CE and later formed an empire under leaders like Mixcóatl and Ce Acatl Topiltzin Quetzalcóatl, who promoted the cult of Quetzalcóatl, the Feathered Serpent deity. They influenced important Mayan cities such as Chichén Itzá, indicating their broad cultural reach. Toltec society introduced militarism into the region and was distinguished by fine metalwork, monumental architecture, and distinctive sculptures. Their dominance ended in the 12th century due to invasions by northern tribes, including the Aztecs, who destroyed Tollan.