Mayan Civilization Social Class Flashcards

Mayan Civilization Social Class Structure

• Upper class comprised of Kings, Priests, and Nobles, viewed as superior to others.
• Kings held the highest authority, deemed as "sons of the gods" and their orders were considered divine mandates.
• Priests played a pivotal role in society, regulating various life aspects and possessing the exclusive right to intervene in societal decisions.
• Nobles were few in number but held significant power, advising kings and making critical decisions based on hereditary positions.

Middle Class Composition

• Middle class included Officers, Professionals, Bureaucrats, Merchants, and Artisans, situated below the upper class.
• Officers and commoners formed the backbone of the middle class in ancient Mayan society, engaging in trade and administrative roles.
• This class contributed to the economy and governance, connecting lower and upper classes.

Lower Class Dynamics

• The lower class consisted of Workers, Servants, and Slaves, representing the most disadvantaged segment of society.
• Workers and servants performed essential but undervalued tasks for the upper class, lacking social recognition.
• Slaves, the lowest tier, had no rights and were treated as property, often subjected to poor living conditions and harsh treatment by owners.

Social Hierarchical Importance

• Each social class in the Mayan civilization played a distinct role, contributing to the overall functioning of society.
• Religion was deeply entwined with governance and social classes, reinforcing power structures and community organization.

Test your knowledge about the social structure of the Mayan civilization with these flashcards. Learn about the various classes, including the upper and middle classes, and their roles in society. Perfect for students and enthusiasts of ancient civilizations!