Pre-Columbian Mexico and Mesoamerican Cultures

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to Pre-Columbian Mexico and Mesoamerican cultures, including notable civilizations, migration theories, and cultural practices.

Migration Theories

Theories explaining the movement of peoples into the Americas, including the Bering Strait and coastal routes.

Beringia

An ancient land bridge believed to have connected Asia and North America during the last ice age.

Olmec Civilization

Considered the 'mother culture' of Mesoamerica, existing from 1500 B.C. to 400 B.C.

Pre-Columbian

Referring to the history and cultures of the Americas before the arrival of Christopher Columbus.

Mesoamerica

A historical region encompassing parts of modern-day Mexico and Central America, known for significant pre-Columbian cultures.

Chichimecas

A term used to refer to a group of indigenous peoples of northern Mexico.

Nomadic

A lifestyle characterized by moving from place to place rather than settling permanently.

Agriculture

The practice of cultivating soil and crops, which began in the Archaic Period (7000-1500 BCE) in Mesoamerica.

Teotihuacán

An ancient Mesoamerican city known for its large pyramids and complex urban planning.

Zapotecs

A civilization in Mesoamerica known for its advancements in architecture, writing, and trade, centered in Monte Albán.

Classic Period

Refers to the time in ancient Mesoamerica (150-900 CE) characterized by sophisticated city-states and cultural achievements.

Post-Classic Period

The period (900-1521 CE) marked by the rise of militaristic city-states that ultimately fell to the Spanish Conquest.

Jaguar Cult

A religious cult in Olmec culture that revered the jaguar as a powerful deity.

Astronomy

The scientific study of celestial bodies; significant in Mesoamerican cultures for calendar making.

Tlachtli

An ancient Mesoamerican ballgame played by various civilizations including the Aztecs.

Feathered Serpent Pyramid

The third largest pyramid in Teotihuacán, significant for its architectural grandeur.

Polytheistic

Believing in or worshiping multiple gods, a common trait in Mesoamerican religions.

Farming Techniques

Methods of cultivating crops that were developed during the Archaic and Classic periods.

Human Sacrifice

A ritual practice in many Mesoamerican cultures, including the Aztecs, as an offering to the gods.

Cacao

A plant whose seeds are used to produce chocolate; significant in Mesoamerican trade and culture.

Tepexpan Man

The name given to the earliest human remains found in Tulum, dating back around 10,000 years.