Questions and Answers
What is the Postclassic Era?
AD 600-1000
What political feature specifically declined and fell apart during the Postclassic period? __________ _______________.
Divine Kingship
What other changes accompanied the Postclassic period?
Cessation of stone monuments, many southern lowlands sites abandoned, lots of Maya East Edge of Yucatán, Northern Lowlands, 2nd tier sub-lords feud with lords, Mul Tepal (joint rule) by sub-lords.
What are the new sites in the Southern Lowlands?
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What economic practice helped Lamanai remain a powerful political force up until Spanish conquest?
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Under what kind of administrative system was Chichen Itza ruled during the Postclassic? (Know the Maya name as well)
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Why was access to the coast important to Chichen Itza?
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Though slightly smaller than Chichen Itza, Mayapan administered a state that unified the entire ____________________ (geographic area).
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When was Mayapán organized under joint rule? __________ - __________
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When did Mayapán joint rule collapse? __________ - __________
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What did the Maya area look like when the Spaniards arrived? Consisted of this many (the number) _____ independent provinces called ___________________.
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What was the end date of Tikal kingship?
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Study Notes
Postclassic Era Overview
- The Postclassic Era spanned from AD 600 to 1000.
- Characterized by a decline in divine kingship, a major political feature that shattered during this period.
Cultural and Political Changes
- Cessation of stone monument construction marks a significant cultural shift.
- Many sites in the southern lowlands were abandoned, while regions such as Maya East Edge of Yucatán and Northern Lowlands gained prominence.
- Emergence of conflicts among 2nd tier sub-lords, along with a trend towards Mul Tepal, or joint rule by sub-lords.
Key Urban Centers
- New sites developed in the Southern Lowlands, notably Seibal and Lamanai.
- Lamanai sustained its political strength through extensive coastal trade, emphasizing the importance of investment in trade routes.
Administrative Structures
- Chichen Itza operated under a Mul Tepal system, involving the rule of three lords.
- Access to coastal areas was critical for Chichen Itza due to its involvement in the salt maritime trade.
Mayapán's Influence
- Although smaller than Chichen Itza, Mayapán governed the entirety of the Northern Lowlands.
- Mayapán was organized under joint rule from 1250 to 1440, during which it unified multiple territories.
- The joint rule in Mayapán collapsed between 1400 and 1440.
Political Landscape at Spanish Arrival
- At the time of Spanish contact, the Maya territory comprised 16 independent provinces referred to as polities.
- The end of kingship at Tikal occurred in 870, signaling further shifts in political organization.
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Test your knowledge on the Postclassic Era of the Maya civilization with these flashcards. Explore key concepts, definitions, and changes that occurred between AD 600-1000. Perfect for students and enthusiasts of Maya history.
