Questions and Answers
What were the four main classes of early Maya society?
On what geographic landform were many of the significant Maya cities located?
Katan Polynesia
How did the daily life of farmers differ from that of people belonging to the wealthier classes?
Farmers worked outside while wealthier classes worked indoors in shops with nicer things.
What was the layout of most of the great Maya cities?
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Based on the illustrations and what you have learned about the Mesoamerican ball game, what qualities were probably necessary to play the game?
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How do you think the Maya reacted when they witnessed a religious ceremony at the top of the towering pyramid?
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What important mathematical ideas did the Maya develop?
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Why did Maya astronomers study the sun, moon, planets, and stars?
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What breakthrough helped archeologists better understand Maya history and culture?
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A _______ is a book made of tree bark to record their people's history.
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What are glyphs?
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What does 'Maya' refer to?
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What is El Mirador?
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Study Notes
Early Maya Society
- Society was divided into four main classes: slaves, farmers, merchants, craftspeople, priests, warriors, and kings.
Geography of Maya Cities
- Significant Maya cities were primarily found in Katan Polynesia.
Daily Life Comparison
- Farmers had to endure harsh outdoor conditions, while wealthier individuals enjoyed indoor jobs in shops with better amenities.
Layout of Maya Cities
- Great Maya cities featured a central plaza, with the temple situated to the east along with various shops and additional temples.
Mesoamerican Ball Game Requirements
- Players needed strong muscles and bones, protective gear, and exceptional skills.
Reactions to Religious Ceremonies
- Observers of religious ceremonies atop pyramids felt it was appropriate and pleasing, reflecting a cultural reverence.
Mathematical Innovations
- The Maya developed key mathematical concepts, including the numeral zero, a detailed calendar, and a sophisticated number system.
Astronomical Studies
- Maya astronomers studied celestial bodies to create calendars, determine planting/harvesting times, and plan religious events.
Archaeological Breakthroughs
- Understanding Maya history and culture became clearer with the deciphering of complex hieroglyphics.
Codex
- A codex is a book made from tree bark, utilized to document the history of the Maya people.
Glyphs
- Glyphs are symbolic pictures used by the Maya for communication and record-keeping.
Historical Context of the Maya
- The Maya civilization, forming around the same time as Zapotec, lasted for 1500 years and utilized glyphs for written history, predominantly in present-day Guatemala.
El Mirador
- Recognized as the cradle of Maya civilization, El Mirador played a crucial role in the development of the Maya culture.
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Description
Explore the intriguing aspects of the Maya civilization, including their societal structure, daily life, and significant mathematical innovations. This quiz covers the geography of Maya cities, their architectural layout, and cultural practices such as religious ceremonies and the famous ball game.
