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A review by saborlitino
Fifth Sun: A New History of the Aztecs by Camilla Townsend
challenging
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
5.0
What an absolutely powerful and important work of historical writings. The author did the honorable task of centering indigenous voices amidst a storm of European sources on the matter, leveling the playfield for the oft under- and misrepresented indigenous people.
Atop of containing a wealth of knowledge, this book evoked a sense of immense pride in my heritage. From hearing of many indigenous writers and artists, I am inspired to learn the Nahuatl language. One of the most touching quotes is from Chimalpahin, a resilient Nahua chronicler of the post-conquest era:
Atop of containing a wealth of knowledge, this book evoked a sense of immense pride in my heritage. From hearing of many indigenous writers and artists, I am inspired to learn the Nahuatl language. One of the most touching quotes is from Chimalpahin, a resilient Nahua chronicler of the post-conquest era:
“It will never be forgotten, it will always be preserved. We will preserve it, we who are the children, grandchildren, so on. We who are the hair, eyebrows, nails - the color and the blood, we are who are the descendants. Those yet to live will go on retelling of them, will go on celebrating them” (197)
I will never forget the struggle of my ancestors, nor forget their joy and celebration. Though this book is dense, I absorbed so so rich history much from it. Thank you for your writing, Camilla!
Graphic: Violence and Colonisation
Moderate: Sexual violence and War