WORLD CIV - Mayas

Maya civilization

A Mesoamerican civilization developed by the Maya peoples, known for its hieroglyphic script.

Hieroglyphic script

The only known fully developed writing system of the pre-Columbian Americas utilized by the Maya.

Mesoamerican Calendar

A system of calendars used in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, including Tzolk’in (divine calendar) and Haab’ (civil calendar).

Polytheistic religion

A practice by the Maya involving a pantheon of gods related to nature, with rituals and ceremonies honoring those gods.

Base-20 numeral system

An advanced mathematical system used by the Maya that includes the concept of zero.

Yucatan Peninsula

The region where the Maya civilization originated, including present-day Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.

Architectural achievements

Impressive constructions by the Maya, such as pyramids, temples, palaces, and observatories.

Slash and burn farming

An agricultural technique practiced by the Maya to enhance soil fertility.

Maya decline

The period when the Maya civilization began to decline, around the 9th century.

Observatories

Structures built by the Maya to study the stars and astronomical events.