Pre-Columbian America and Its Influences
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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'Olmec' refer to?

  • A type of ancient Mesoamerican language
  • An archaeological site in Guatemala
  • The people who created pyramids in Tula
  • Inhabitants of the rubber country (correct)

When was the Pre-Classic phase of the Maya civilization recognized as beginning?

  • 100 AD
  • 500 BC
  • 600 BC (correct)
  • 300 AD

Which civilization reached its peak between 150-350 AD?

  • Olmec
  • Teotihuacan (correct)
  • Maya
  • Toltec

What was the main achievement of the Toltecs?

<p>Founding a new center known as Tula (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which region did the Olmec civilization primarily influence?

<p>Guatemala and Oaxaca (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these phases is NOT part of the Maya civilization's development?

<p>Neo-Classic (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

From which people did the Toltecs originate?

<p>Chichimeca (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant period of development follows the Classic phase in Maya civilization history?

<p>Post-Classic (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What event happened around 1170 that affected Tula?

<p>Tula was overthrown (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which civilization was responsible for founding Tenochtitlan and Tlatelolco?

<p>The Aztecs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the name 'Aztlán' refer to in relation to the Aztecs?

<p>Their geographic origin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary focus of worship among most ancient Mesoamerican gods?

<p>Natural phenomena (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which important god among the ancient Mesoamericans was known as 'Quetzalcoatl'?

<p>The feathered serpent (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What agricultural challenge did the ancient people face regarding maize cultivation?

<p>Absence of domestic animals (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What practice is attributed to the Toltecs as part of their religious beliefs?

<p>Introduction of human sacrifice (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant consequence of Tula's overthrow and invasions?

<p>Increased migration of peoples (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a Chac-Mool depict?

<p>A reclining figure supporting a bowl (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What animal is associated with Kukulcán in Mesoamerican culture?

<p>Feathered Serpent (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What function did the bowl on a Chac-Mool's chest likely serve?

<p>A ceremonial offering holder (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Approximately when was the Temple of Kukulcán built?

<p>800-1200 AD (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the height of the Temple of Kukulcán not including the temple at the top?

<p>24 meters (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What shape is the base of the Temple of Kukulcán?

<p>Square (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which culture is closely related to the deity Kukulcán?

<p>Aztec (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the total height of the Temple of Kukulcán including the temple at the top?

<p>30 m (98 ft) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the relationship between religion and state governance under the Incas?

<p>The Inca was viewed as a divine figure directly linked to the sun god. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the governance structure of the Inca Empire is accurate?

<p>The system was rigid, with the Inca as an absolute ruler supported by nobles. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of building material was primarily used in the coastal region of Peru during the Inca period?

<p>Adobe brick. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterized the architectural style of the Temples of Moche?

<p>Simple forms with strong and minimalistic features. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT a shape used for adobe bricks during different periods?

<p>Pyramidal. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What architectural feature connects the central mass of the Palace of the Governors to the smaller blocks?

<p>Triangular corbelled arches (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of the upper band of the Palace of the Governors is highlighted?

<p>It is designed to resemble a woven pattern. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many chambers does the Palace of the Governors contain?

<p>Twenty chambers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Tenochtitlan the capital of during the 15th century?

<p>The expanding Aztec Empire (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what elevation was Tenochtitlan located?

<p>8,000 ft above sea level (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What geographical features surrounded Tenochtitlan?

<p>Volcanic mountains and forested valleys (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the plaza of Tenochtitlan likely contain?

<p>Temples to the gods of various elements (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What event marked the end of Tenochtitlan as the capital of the Aztec Empire?

<p>The Spanish conquest in 1521 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated height of the Gate of the Sun?

<p>9.8 ft (3.0 m) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During what time period did the Tiwanaku culture thrive around Lake Titicaca?

<p>500-950 CE (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is NOT one of the primary structures of Machu Picchu?

<p>Temple of the Moon (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant architectural style is Machu Picchu built in?

<p>Classical Inca style (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Approximately how much does the Gate of the Sun weigh?

<p>10 tons (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the elevation of Machu Picchu on its mountain ridge?

<p>2,430 meters (7,970 ft) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where is Sacsayhuamán located?

<p>In the city of Cusco (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of the carvings on the Gate of the Sun?

<p>Astrological and calendrical significance (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Olmec civilization

The earliest known civilization in Mesoamerica, flourishing on the Gulf Coast of Mexico in the first millennium BC.

Maya culture

A major civilization in the Yucatan region, developing from the Olmec, and lasting from approximately 600 BC to 1525 AD.

Pre-Classic, Classic, Post-Classic

The three phases of Maya civilization, representing different periods of development and influence.

Teotihuacan

A significant civilization that developed on the Mexican plateau around 100 BC, reaching its peak between 150-350 AD.

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Toltec civilization

A civilization that rose in Central Mexico, expanding from a settlement near Teotihuacan and influencing parts of Central Mexico and Maya lands.

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Tolteca-Chichimeca

The group of people that migrated from the deserts to establish the Toltec culture.

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Tula (Tollan)

The city founded by the Toltecs, becoming a significant center of influence.

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Olmecatl (Nahuatl)

Meaning 'inhabitant of the rubber country' in the Nahuatl language.

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Aztec origins

The Aztecs originated from Aztlán, a place in northwestern Mexico.

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Tenochtitlan and Tlatelolco

These were the twin capitals founded by the Aztecs.

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Tula's downfall

The city of Tula was overtaken by invasions after 1170.

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Quetzalcoatl

An important Mesoamerican god, often represented as a feathered serpent.

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Toltec religious practices

The Toltecs worshiped Quetzalcoatl and possibly introduced human sacrifice.

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Maize's importance

Maize was a key food source but its cultivation required a large labor force.

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Mesoamerican gods

The most important gods represented natural phenomena (sun, moon, rain, corn).

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Aztec Agriculture

Maize cultivation was crucial but lacked sufficient livestock.

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Chac-Mool

A pre-Columbian Mesoamerican sculpture of a reclining figure, supporting a bowl or disk on its stomach.

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Possible Symbolism of Chac-Mool

Represents slain warriors offering to gods; bowl held sacrificial offerings.

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Temple of Kukulcan

Mesoamerican step-pyramid at Chichen Itza, dedicated to the feathered serpent deity Kukulcan.

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Kukulcan

Yucatec Maya feathered serpent deity related to Quetzalcoatl.

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Temple of Kukulcan Height

24 meters (79 ft) high, plus additional 6 meters (20 ft) for the temple.

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Temple of Kukulcan Base

Square base measuring 55.3 meters (181 ft) across.

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Period of Temple of Kukulcan Construction

Built by the Maya civilization between 8th and 12th centuries AD.

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Location of Temple of Kukulcan

In Chichen Itza, Yucatán, Mexico.

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Palace of Governors' facade

The front of the building is 8.5 meters tall and has two horizontal sections.

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Tenochtitlan's location

A large Mexica city, in present-day Mexico City, surrounded by mountains and forests

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Inca Religion

The Inca religion intertwined with the state, with the Inca ruler considered divinely related to the sun god.

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Tenochtitlàn's size

A large Mexica altepetl, the 15th-century capital of the Aztec Empire.

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Tenochtitlan's importance

The capital of the Aztec Empire in the 15th century

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Inca Empire Structure

The Inca empire was governed by an absolute ruler with a hierarchical system of nobles and regional rulers.

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Inca Empire's Size

The Inca Empire extended over a vast territory of 4,000 kilometers from north to south, stretching across much of South America.

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Palace base

A multi-level structure with triangular corbels, linking to the side blocks.

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Temple of the Sun (Moche)

The Temple of the Sun, built of adobe bricks, stands as a testament to the Moche civilization's architectural prowess.

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Tenochtitlan's Plaza's purpose

Probably held temples to gods related to rain, wind, sun.

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Tenochtitlán date of founding

The exact founding date is unknown.

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Moche Architecture

The Moche people built with adobe bricks, creating unique structures like the Temple of the Sun and the fortress at Paramonga.

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Tenochtitlan's fate

Captured by the Spanish in 1521

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Gate of the Sun

A massive stone archway carved by the Tiwanaku culture in Bolivia, believed to hold astronomical significance.

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Tiwanaku Culture

An ancient civilization flourishing in the Andes region of Bolivia, known for its impressive architecture and astronomical knowledge.

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Machu Picchu

An iconic Inca citadel in Peru, perched on a mountain ridge and famous for its impressive stonework and architecture.

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Intihuatana

A sacred stone structure at Machu Picchu, believed to have been used to observe the sun's movement and mark the solstices.

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Saksayhuaman

A powerful Inca citadel on the outskirts of Cusco, Peru, known for its impressive stonework and strategic location.

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Dry-Stone Walls

A unique building technique used by the Incas, involving fitting stones together without using mortar.

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Temple of the Sun

A significant structure within the Inca complex at Machu Picchu, dedicated to the sun god Inti.

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Room of Three Windows

A remarkable structure at Machu Picchu, featuring three windows framing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

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Study Notes

Pre-Columbian America

  • This region was populated by various groups for millennia
  • Olmec, Zapotec, Maya, Toltec, and Aztec peoples lived here
  • Important areas included Central Mexico, the Gulf of Mexico Coast, Oaxaca, the Yucatán Peninsula, Southern Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala
  • Geographical and climatic regions show contrasts in conditions
  • Dry high plains vs tropical rain forests

Influences: Middle America

  • Geographical & Climatic: Central Mexico, Gulf of Mexico Coast, Oaxaca, Yucatán Peninsula, Southern Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala.
  • Climates varied dramatically, ranging from dry high plains to tropical rain forests.

Influences: Geological

  • Northern Yucatan had excellent limestone
  • Mexico had volcanic rock (e.g., tezontle), ranging in color from black to crimson
  • Aztec builders favored tezontle
  • Adobe brick made from sundried clay was widely used
  • Southeast forests provided hardwoods

Influences: Historical, Social & Religious

  • Olmec: Earliest civilization, arose on the Gulf Coast in the first millennium BC
  • Significant influence extended to Guatemala and Oaxaca
  • The Olmec were the first society to have a prominent rubber producing area
  • Maya: Developed from the Olmec influence
  • Maya culture lasted from 600 BC to 1525 AD and divided into periods: Pre-Classic, Classic, and Post-Classic.
  • Toltec: Migrated from north-west deserts to Culhuacan in the Valley of Mexico in the 9th century AD
  • Teotihuacan: Important civilization in the Mexican plateau (150-350 AD)
  • Aztec: Derived from Aztlán. The Aztec people arrived in the 14th century, and settled in Tenochtitlan, the twin capital of Tlatelolco, in present-day Mexico City.
  • Religion: Important gods included Quetzalcoatl ("Feathered Serpent")—a significant god for Mesoamerican people. The Toltecs, and probably the early Mesoamericans, worshipped natural phenomena(the sun, the moon, the rain, and corn).

Influences: Historical, Social & Religious

  • Maize cultivation: Was a staple food
  • Cultivation required labor-intensive agriculture

Aztec Class Society

  • Society was organized in a hierarchical structure, with a powerful ruling priesthood and a wide peasant or slave class
  • Included: Priests, warriors, merchants, craftsmen, farmers (and slaves), and commoners.
  • Rulers were selected from the royalty by a council consisting of priests and warriors

Influences: Architecture

  • Temple Pyramid: The most important architectural structure in the region.
  • Temple of the Sun: Named by the Aztecs, located in Teotihuacan. Constructed in approximately the 200 AD
  • Temple of the Feathered Serpent: Located in Teotihuacan's Ciudadela complex; six-level step-pyramid built in the talud-tablero style.
  • Truncated Pyramid: Conical structures with an uneven truncated top, derived from Mesoamerican and Egyptian precedents
  • Palace of the Governors: One-story structure in Chichen Itza with twenty chambers covered by corbelled vaults. Decorations were intricately patterned in the style of woven designs.

Tikal Temple I

  • Located in the Petén Basin of northern Guatemala. Designated Tikal Temple I, it was a major structure with nine levels to symbolize the underworld and 55 meters high
  • Known as the Temple of the Great Jaguar because of a lintel and also named as Temple of Ah Cacao, after the ruler
  • Built from approximately 8th to 12th centuries AD

Temple of the Warriors

  • Impressive 40-feet high structure at Chichen Itza.
  • Shows detailed bas-reliefs depicting warriors, eagles, and jaguars
  • Has four platforms and columns, and encased a former structure known as The Temple of the Chac Mool

Temple of the Chac Mool

  • A sculpture of a reclining figure with its head angled away from the front, resting on its elbows, with a bowl or a disk on its torso
  • May have symbolized slain warriors
  • Bowls on the figures' chests were used for sacrificial offerings.

Temple of Kukulcán

  • Mesoamerican step-pyramid in Chichen Itza (Yucatán).
  • The structure has 24 meters height; it served as a temple dedicated to Kukulcán, a deity closely related to Quetzalcoatl

Palace of the Governors

  • One-story structure located in Chichén Itza; 8.5 meter high facade, divided into two horizontal bands and decorated with intricate patterns

Tenochtitlan

  • Historic center of Mexico city.
  • Aztec capital.
  • Located at 8,000 feet above sea level, on a flat expanse between two mountain valleys

Inca Civilization (Peru)

  • Geographical & Climatic: Andes Mountains; narrow coastal plains; steep valleys; fertile pockets
  • Developed highly advanced civilizations even before the first century B.C.
  • Historical, Social & Religious: Political and religious power concentrated on the Inca and other nobles
  • Influence of Tiahuanaco in religious matters
  • The Inca conquered numerous tribes and extended their empire during the 15th century. Their empire stretched from Northern Columbia to the South of Chili.

SACSAYHUAMÁN

  • Inca citadel located on the outskirts of Cusco, Peru.
  • Constructed in the 15th Century by Pachacuti and successors.
  • Known for massive dry-stone walls; stones carefully fit together without mortar.

Machu Picchu

  • 15th-century Inca citadel in the Andes Mountains of southern Peru
  • Located on a 2,430-meter mountain ridge.
  • Popularly known as the "Lost City of the Incas."
  • Classical Inca style with polished dry-stone walls.
  • Important structures include the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows

Architectural Materials of Peru

  • Adobe brick: Basic building material in coastal regions.
  • Black andesite, Yucay limestone, and diorite porphyry: Stone frequently used for building construction in highlands.

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Pre-Columbian America Chapter 4 PDF

Description

Explore the diverse groups that populated Pre-Columbian America, including the Olmec, Maya, Toltec, and Aztec civilizations. Understand the geographical, climatic, geological, and historical influences that shaped this region. Dive into the contrasts in climate and the materials used by these ancient cultures in their architecture and daily life.

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