The Postclassic Maya
The Postclassic Maya period, spanning approximately from 950 to 1539 AD, marks a significant era in the history of the Maya civilization. This period followed the Classic Maya collapse, characterized by the decline of major cities and political structures, and saw the rise of new centers of power, cultural shifts, and interactions with other Mesoamerican cultures.
Political and Social Changes
During the Postclassic period, the political landscape of the Maya region underwent significant changes:
- The decline of large urban centers like Tikal and Palenque led to the rise of new political entities, often more militaristic in nature, such as Mayapan and Chichen Itza.
- The concept of K'uhul Ajaw or "Holy Lord" was less prominent, with power becoming more decentralized and shared among multiple rulers or councils.
- There was an increase in trade and interaction with other Mesoamerican civilizations, particularly the Aztecs and Toltecs, which influenced Maya art, architecture, and religious practices.
Economy and Trade
The Postclassic Maya economy was notably more trade-oriented:
- Trade networks expanded, with goods like salt, obsidian, jade, cacao, and Quetzal feathers being traded across Mesoamerica.
- Coastal cities like Tulum and Cozumel served as trade hubs due to their strategic locations.
Art and Architecture
Art and architecture during this period showed:
- Influence from Central Mexican styles, particularly in sculpture and mural painting, with more militaristic themes.
- The construction of large-scale buildings, such as the Castillo at Chichen Itza, which was built over earlier structures and incorporated Toltec architectural elements.
- Religious architecture continued to be significant, with the building of new temples and the adaptation of existing ones.
Religion and Culture
Religious practices saw:
- An increased emphasis on warrior cults and the worship of deities like Quetzalcoatl, reflecting influences from Central Mexico.
- The continuation of traditional Maya rituals, although with some syncretism with foreign practices.
Decline and Spanish Contact
The Postclassic period ended with the arrival of the Spanish:
- European diseases, warfare, and cultural disruption led to the rapid decline of Maya power structures.
- The Spanish conquest of the Yucatán Peninsula began in the early 16th century, culminating in the fall of major Maya cities by the mid-1500s.
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