Ep 12. The Aztecs: Of Blood and Sacrifice

In Digging for the Truth, season 3 episode 12 titled "The Aztecs: Of Blood and Sacrifice," host Josh Bernstein explores the Aztec civilization and their infamous practice of human sacrifice.

Bernstein begins by visiting the heart of Aztec civilization, Tenochtitlan, in present-day Mexico City. He is amazed by the architectural marvels of the Aztecs, such as the massive pyramid of the Sun and the intricate carvings on the walls of the Great Temple.

However, Bernstein quickly discovers the darker side of Aztec culture - the practice of human sacrifice. He meets with an expert in Aztec history who explains that human sacrifice was not just a religious ritual, but also had political and social significance. The Aztecs believed that sacrificing humans would appease their gods and ensure the survival of their empire.

Bernstein then heads to a location where Aztecs once carried out human sacrifices. He learns about the different methods of sacrificing humans, from decapitation to heart removal. He is shocked to learn that the Aztecs would sacrifice tens of thousands of people every year, including prisoners of war and even children.

The next part of Bernstein's journey takes him to a remote region in Mexico, where he discovers a hidden cave filled with artifacts and remains from the Aztec civilization. He learns that this cave was used as a sacred space for Aztec priests to practice human sacrifice.

Bernstein is then given the opportunity to participate in an Aztec reenactment of a human sacrifice. He dresses up in traditional Aztec attire and witnesses the ritualistic sacrifice of a goat. He reflects on how brutal and horrific the practice of human sacrifice must have been, but also acknowledges that it was a crucial part of Aztec culture.

In the final part of the episode, Bernstein visits a modern-day Aztec community and learns about how they have preserved their traditions and beliefs. The community practices a form of Aztec religion and even continues with some of the traditional practices, such as performing sacred dances and music.

Overall, "The Aztecs: Of Blood and Sacrifice" is a fascinating and eye-opening episode that delves into the complexities and contradictions of Aztec culture. Bernstein does an excellent job of exploring both the magnificent achievements of the Aztec civilization as well as the gruesome practices that they carried out. Viewers will come away with a greater understanding of this ancient culture and the ways in which it continues to impact modern-day Mexico.