Ancient Civilizations and Their Scientific Achievements

The video explores the history of science in Mesoamerican civilizations, focusing on the Maya, Aztec, and Inka. It highlights the Mayan astronomical knowledge, calendar systems, and agricultural practices. The Aztecs' engineering feats and medical knowledge are discussed, along with the Inkan record-keeping system using khipu. The impact of Spanish colonization on these civilizations is also addressed.

What is a major limitation historians face when studying ancient science?

• Too many conflicting sources

• Modern technology is insufficient

• Lack of interest in ancient cultures

• Absence of written records

What was a significant achievement of the Olmecs?

• Invention of the telescope

• Discovery of electricity

• Development of the wheel

• Creation of a calendar system

Which heavenly body was most important to the Maya?

• The Sun

• The Moon

• Mars

• Venus

How did the Maya use their understanding of time?

• For trade and commerce

• For religious purposes and astrology

• To develop new technologies

• To predict weather patterns

What agricultural technique did the Maya use to support their civilization?

• Vertical farming

• Hydroponics

• Swidden agriculture

• Terrace farming

What was a key feature of Aztec engineering in Tenochtitlán?

• Construction of skyscrapers

• Building of large dams

• Creation of canals and aqueducts

• Development of a subway system

What was the purpose of the Aztec's equinoctial lines?

• To predict lunar eclipses

• To track the equinoxes

• To align with the North Star

• To mark the solstices

What modern technology has helped uncover Mayan ruins?

• Drones

• LiDAR

• Sonar

• GPS

What was unique about the Inkan record-keeping system?

• It used paper scrolls

• It was entirely oral

• It involved tying knots

• It was based on hieroglyphs

What impact did Spanish colonization have on native American cultures?

• It introduced new languages

• It preserved ancient traditions

• It caused a decisive cultural break

• It led to technological advancements