Mesoamerican Civilizations: Mayas, Aztecs, and Incas

This set of flashcards covers key terminology and concepts related to the Mayas, Aztecs, and Incas, focusing on their unique attributes and contributions to civilization.

Mayas

An ancient civilization that existed from 500 BC to about 900 AD, dominating parts of Mexico and Central America.

Hieroglyphics

A system of writing used by the Mayas that employed symbols and pictures to represent words and sounds.

Chinampas

Floating gardens used by the Aztecs for growing food, allowing agriculture on waterlogged areas.

Incas

An ancient civilization that ruled from the 1400’s to 1500’s AD across the Andes Mountains in South America.

365 Day Calendar

A calendar developed by the Mayas, recognized for its accuracy in tracking the solar year.

Free Schools

Educational institutions set up by the Aztecs that were accessible to both boys and girls.

Irrigation

A farming technique used by the Incas for watering crops through controlled water distribution.

Terraces

Farming techniques employed by the Incas that involved creating stepped fields on mountain slopes.

Pyramids

Large structures built by the Mayas for religious ceremonies.

Chocolate

A food item that was commonly consumed at every meal by the Mayas.