The Mayans Pt. I

Front

When did humans first settle the American Continents?

Back

Between 20,000-12,000 BCE based on archeological evidence.

Front

What was the Mayan Golden Age?

Back

The period from 250-950 when the Mayans thrived as a collection of city-states.

Front

What are some reasons for the collapse of the Mayan civilization after 950?

Back

Overpopulation, drought, and war.

Front

Why is much of Mayan history unknown?

Back

Spanish colonists like Diego de Landa burned their records.

Front

What are some geographic challenges of the Yucatan?

Back

Little fresh water, farming logistics, and poor soil quality.

Front

How did the Mayans address the challenge of little fresh water?

Back

They created rain reservoirs to collect rainwater.

Front

How did cities like Tikal manage rainwater?

Back

They built the city on a slight angle so rainwater would drain into the reservoir.

Front

What role did the Mayan Calendar play in farming logistics?

Back

It helped predict and plan around the rainy seasons.

Front

What did the Mayans require for their calendar system?

Back

A writing and number system.

Front

What observatories did the Mayans build?

Back

El Caracol and El Castillo.