Maya Civilization
The Maya Civilization was a Mesoamerican civilization developed by the Maya people, and noted for its hieroglyphic script—the only known fully developed writing system of the pre-Columbian Americas—as well as for its art, architecture, mathematics, calendar, and astronomical system. The Maya civilization extended over what is now Guatemala, Belize, western Honduras, and the Mexican states of Chiapas, Tabasco, Yucatán, Quintana Roo, and Campeche.
History
- Preclassic Period (c. 2000 BC - AD 250): The earliest Maya settlements were established, and the civilization began to develop its unique cultural features. By the Middle Preclassic (c. 1000-300 BC), monumental architecture, such as large pyramids and public plazas, started to appear.
- Classic Period (AD 250-900): This period saw the height of Maya culture, with city-states like Tikal and Calakmul emerging as major political, economic, and cultural centers. There was extensive trade, warfare, and the development of sophisticated art and writing.
- Postclassic Period (AD 900-1524): Following the collapse of the Classic Maya centers, the Maya population shifted to northern Yucatán, where cities like Chichen Itza and Mayapan became dominant. The Postclassic period is characterized by the decline of monumental construction and the centralization of power in fewer but larger cities.
- Spanish Conquest (16th Century): The Maya civilization came into contact with Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century. The Spanish conquest led to the fall of Maya polities, the destruction of much of their cultural heritage, and the imposition of Christianity and colonial rule.
Cultural Achievements
- Writing System: The Maya developed one of the most sophisticated writing systems in the pre-Columbian Americas. Their script was a combination of logograms and syllabic glyphs.
- Mathematics and Astronomy: They created an elaborate calendar system with three different calendars: the Long Count, the Tzolkin (divinatory calendar), and the Haab' (vague solar year). Their mathematical system was vigesimal (base-20), and they understood the concept of zero.
- Architecture: Known for their stepped pyramids, palaces, observatories, ball courts, and intricate carvings, Maya architecture was both functional and symbolic, often aligned with celestial events.
- Art: Maya art, including pottery, sculpture, and mural painting, was rich in religious themes, depicting gods, rulers, and scenes from daily life.
Decline
The reasons for the decline of the Maya civilization during the Classic Period are still debated among scholars. Theories include environmental degradation, overpopulation, warfare, foreign invasion, and drought. However, it's likely that a combination of these factors contributed to the collapse of the Classic Maya centers.
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