AP World History Unit 1.4: Developments in the Americas (600-1450 CE)

Overview

• This period marks significant developments in various indigenous cultures across the Americas.

• Societies evolved with complex social structures, economies, and political systems.

Major Civilizations

Mesoamerica

1. Maya Civilization

   • Location: Southern Mexico and Central America.

   • Achievements:

     • Advanced writing system (hieroglyphics).

     • Mathematics (concept of zero).

     • Astronomy and calendar systems.

   • Political Structure: City-states ruled by kings.

2. Aztec Empire

   • Location: Central Mexico.

   • Capital: Tenochtitlan.

   • Achievements:

     • Military conquests expanded territory.

     • Tribute system from conquered peoples.

     • Complex religion with numerous deities.

   • Economy: Agriculture (chinampas) and trade.

Andean Region

1. Inca Empire

   • Location: Western South America (Peru).

   • Achievements:

     • Extensive road systems (Inca Road).

     • Quipu (knotted strings for record-keeping).

     • Terraced farming techniques.

   • Political Structure: Centralized bureaucracy led by the Sapa Inca.

Societal Structures

• Social Hierarchies: Rigid class systems with nobles, priests, and commoners.

• Gender Roles: Varied by region; some societies had matrilineal aspects (e.g., Inca).

• Religion: Polytheistic beliefs; rituals often included human sacrifice (especially in Aztec culture).

Economic Systems

• Agriculture: Maize, beans, squash as staple crops.

• Trade Networks: Extensive trade routes connecting different regions (e.g., Mesoamerica to the Andes).

• Tribute Systems: Conquered peoples paid tribute in goods and labor.

Cultural Developments

• Art and Architecture: Monumental structures (pyramids, temples) and intricate pottery.

• Writing and Record-Keeping: Maya hieroglyphics and Inca quipu for administration and history.

Interactions and Influences

• Cultural Exchange: Trade facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies.

• Conflict and Conquest: Rivalries between city-states (Maya) and empires (