Mexico got its name from the Aztecs. They called themselves “Mexíca”. They are only referred to as Aztecs due to old legends. Their people arrived in Mexico around the 14th century, after a long march in order to find a promised land.  They came from a legendary place called “Aztlán”. That is why they were often referred to as Aztecs by other people. Prophecy said their promised land would be in a place where they would find an eagle sitting on a cactus, with a snake in its claws. This place was just in the valley where today Mexico City is located. And this is why the Mexican flag shows an eagle sitting on a cactus, with a snake in its claws.