Chapter 1: The Collisions of Cultures

Vocabulary flashcards covering key early American civilizations, Native American tribes, and early European exploration based on lecture notes.

Archaic Period

The early history of humans in America starting around 8000 B.C., characterized by hunter-gatherers and early farmers.

Incas

A South American civilization that created the largest empire in the region, spanning 2,000 miles.

Olmec People

The first complex society in Mesoamerica, emerging around 1600–1500 B.C.

Mayans

A Mesoamerican civilization (1600 B.C. to 300 A.D.) known for developing a numerical system, written language, calendar, agriculture, and trade routes.

Aztecs

A civilization (also referred to as Mexica) that established their capital in 1325 A.D. and developed medical systems, schools, military structures, and slave systems.

Inuit

A northern civilization residing in the Arctic Circle and Alaska who were nomadic hunters.

Pueblo People

A Southwestern society (900–1150 A.D.) centered in New Mexico that thrived through commerce across 12 towns and 200 villages.

Pueblo Bonito

A multi-story building containing 600 rooms constructed by the Pueblo people, which remained one of the largest buildings until 1880s New York.

Cahokia

A major trading center with 40,000 people located near St. Louis that served as a large urban center.

Prince Henry the Navigator

A Portuguese prince who greatly increased maritime travel during the European era of sea exploration.