The noble class comprised the top echelons of Aztec society; they dominated the priesthood, the government, and practically all of the empire's riches. They also occupied the majority of the influential posts in those three spheres. The Aztecs had a rigid social structure in which people fell into one of four categories: nobles, commoners, serfs, or slaves. High ranking priests, nobles, and members of the military made up the noble class. Society was firmly under the authority of the nobility. They controlled the government and owned the land, slaves, and household staff. They oversaw the troops as well. Control over land, labour, and tribute was the foundation of Aztec nobility's riches and power. Being a noble required having noble parents