Bringing Moctezuma's Crown Back Home
Inside a museum in Vienna, Austria, sits one of the most stunning treasures in the world. It is a massive feathered headdress known as the penacho. Made from hundreds of shimmering green quetzal feathers, shiny gold plates, and bright blue bird feathers, it once belonged to the Aztec civilization hundreds of years ago. Many people believe it was worn by the Aztec emperor Moctezuma II. Today, it sits in a glass case thousands of miles away from Mexico. It is time for this extraordinary crown to finally return home to Mexico City.
First, returning the headdress is a matter of fairness and justice. In the early 1500s, Spanish conquerors arrived in Mexico and destroyed the Aztec Empire. European history books often claim the headdress was a friendly gift from Moctezuma to the King of Spain. However, Mexican historians explain that this happened during a time of war and destruction. An item taken during a conquest was not truly a free gift. Because of this, holding onto the headdress in Europe honors a painful colonial past instead of respecting the Indigenous people who created it.
- penacho:
- A large, elaborate feathered headdress worn as a symbol of authority by Aztec leaders.
- quetzal:
- A colorful tropical bird known for its long, brilliant green tail feathers.
- conquest:
- The act of taking control of a people, city, or territory by military force.
- Indigenous:
- Originating naturally in a particular region or country; referring to the earliest known inhabitants.
- artifact:
- An object made or used by humans in the past that holds historical or cultural interest.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1What is the penacho, and what materials was it made from?
- 2Where is the penacho currently located today?
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About this opinion piece passage for Upper Elementary
“Bringing Moctezuma's Crown Back Home” is a opinion piece reading passage about Cultural Restitution, written for Upper Elementary. It takes about 3 minutes to read (426 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.