SS prep Guide 3.25

causeway

A raised road built over wet ground or water.

stelae

Stone slabs or columns bearing inscriptions or images, often used as monuments.

hieroglyphic

A writing system that uses symbols or pictures to represent sounds or concepts.

observatory

A structure or location used for observing celestial events.

solar calendar

A calendar based on the Earth's revolutions around the Sun.

drought

A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to water shortages.

aqueduct

A conduit for transporting water, typically in the form of a bridge-like structure.

quetzal

A brightly colored bird, often symbolic in Mesoamerican culture.

pok-ta-pok

An ancient Mesoamerican ball game played with a rubber ball.

Triple Alliance

The alliance of three city-states: Tenochtitlan, Texcoco, and Tlacopan.

absolute monarchy

A form of government in which a single person rules with complete power.

Supreme Council

A governing body or group that holds the highest authority.

chinampas

Floating gardens used for agriculture, especially by the Aztecs.

obsidian

A volcanic glass used for making tools and weapons.

Olmec

An early Mesoamerican civilization known for colossal head sculptures.

Maya

An advanced Mesoamerican civilization known for its writing, art, and architecture.

Aztec

A powerful Mesoamerican empire known for its military conquests and human sacrifices.

War Council

A group responsible for decisions related to warfare.

Council of Four

A ruling council in Aztec society that advised the king.

Montezuma II

The last Aztec emperor, known for his encounters with Spanish conquistadors.