15 Civilizations of the Americas Free Online FlashCards

How did maize agriculture affect Maya society?

Maize agriculture supported larger populations and helped Maya communities grow into complex political centers.

How was Maya political power organized in the Classic period?

The Maya world consisted of independent kingdoms centered on cities such as Tikal, Palenque, and Copán, not one unified empire.

What roles did Maya ajaw perform?

Maya rulers, often called ajaw, claimed sacred authority, led ceremonies, and competed through war, diplomacy, and alliances.

What kinds of events did Maya inscriptions record?

Maya inscriptions recorded dynasties, warfare, and ritual events.

What happened to Maya society after many southern lowland centers declined?

Many southern lowland centers declined and were abandoned from the ninth century, but Maya political life continued elsewhere, and Maya peoples and languages endure today.

Which city-states formed the Triple Alliance in 1428?

In 1428, Tenochtitlan, Texcoco, and Tlacopan formed the Triple Alliance. Tenochtitlan's Mexica became its dominant force.

Where did the Mexica establish Tenochtitlan?

The Mexica established Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco in the fourteenth century.

How did the Mexica generally govern conquered communities?

Many conquered communities kept their local rulers but owed tribute, such as food, textiles, feathers, or precious materials, and might provide military support.

What were Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc associated with?

Huitzilopochtli was associated with the sun and warfare; Tlaloc was associated with rain.

What did the Inca call their empire, and what does the name mean?

The Inca called their empire Tawantinsuyu, meaning “Land of the Four Quarters.”

What was the Qhapaq Ñan?

The Qhapaq Ñan, or Great Inka Road, was a network of roughly 40,000 kilometers that connected distant regions.

What were quipu used for in the Inca state?

Quipu were knotted cords that Inca administrators used for recordkeeping.