Teuctli

Aztec Lord:
Within the social strata of the Aztec polities of central Mexico, few besides the royal family itself could boast as high a status as the Teteuctin (sg. Teuctli), noblemen who earned lordship of their own House (Teucalli) by way of distinguished service to the Tlatoani and the state. This title conferred to them lands, serfs, tributary privileges as well as granting them military, administrative and judicial power over the aforementioned house and lands. While the title was not technically hereditary, as lordship was anointed by the Tlatoani himself. it passed on within the family, generally from father to first son.