Why did the Aztecs start sacrificing their own people?

The Aztecs began sacrificing their own people as part of their religious beliefs, which centered on the need to appease their gods and ensure the continuation of the world. They believed that the sun required human blood to rise each day, and sacrifices were seen as essential to maintaining cosmic order and fertility. Additionally, these acts were tied to political power, as they served to intimidate enemies and reinforce the authority of the ruling class.