While the language was heavily suppressed during the colonial period, it survived and has experienced a resurgence in recent decades.
Here's a breakdown:
* Modern speakers: Nahuatl is spoken by an estimated 1.5 million people in Mexico, mostly in the states of Puebla, Veracruz, and Hidalgo.
* Dialects: There are over 30 distinct dialects of Nahuatl, making it a complex language family.
* Official recognition: Nahuatl is officially recognized as a national language in Mexico, along with Spanish.
* Education: Some schools in areas where Nahuatl is spoken teach the language, and there are also efforts to preserve and revitalize it.
* Cultural significance: Nahuatl plays a crucial role in preserving Aztec culture and traditions.
While not as widely spoken as it was in the pre-colonial era, Nahuatl is a vibrant and living language with a strong presence in modern Mexico. It's a testament to the resilience of indigenous cultures and languages.