The Mayans

Mayan Civilization (1800 BC- 1000AD) Lasted for around 2000 years! Built one of the greatest civilizations of all time. And disappeared suddenly.

Mayan Introduction The Mayans were one of the most advanced civilizations in history. Their scientific and astrological studies created an accurate 365 day calendar

Intro to the Mayans The Mayans were one of the most advanced civilizations in history. Their scientific and astrological studies created an accurate 365 day calendar They had the most advanced writing system called “Glyphs. Very similar to hieroglyphic symbols Collections of these glyphs would be found in what are called “Codex”, or book.

Compass Mayans believed gods associated with different colors represented the cardinal directions North East West Center South

Geography The Mayans lived in the area of Central America in what is now Yucatan, Guatemala, Belize & Southern Mexico.

Geography Continued The land consists of rainforests, swamps, & savannas. The highlands, in the south, were volcanic mountains. The northern climate was hot and rainy

Government Much like the Ancient Egyptians, the Mayan had a king whom they viewed as a God. The King and Queen made up the royal family and the Noble Class The other 99% was comprised of commoners. Not much is known of everyday Mayan, because their homes were made from materials that wore down over time.

Goverment The military ruler or the “nacom” played a huge role in the government. The nacom had a 3 year term. There was also a nacom for human sacrifices. The nacom would be in charge of cutting and ripping out the hearts of the victims.

I volunteer as tribute!

Mayan Sacrifice

Mayan Economy The Mayans had an extensive trading network Did not use “money” Instead they used: Jade, gold, copper, and pottery And food, clothing, salt, ect. Which do you think was worth more?

Economy continued Mayans produced corn, beans, and squash. Used “slash and burn” agriculture techniques.

Mayan religion Religion was the center of Mayan life and it led to many advances in their civilization.

Religion Mayans were polytheists who built large pyramids to honor gods In order to make the various gods happy, the Mayans offered their blood, food, and even human sacrifices to please them.

Religion Continued Mayans believed that Priests had the spirit of animals living inside of them, and could communicate to the Gods. This gave priests a lot of power. Priests decided when to plant crops, when people could marry, and to whom they could get married. (Basically, everything needed a priests approval)

Mayan Art/Architecture

Art Created an accurate calendar with 365 days that could predict eclipses and the day of the week many thousands of years in the future.

Art Developed the concept of “0” Used a “Base 20” form of numbering. Why 20? Place values are arranged vertically

Mayan ballgame

Play Ball

25 Interesting facts about the Mayan Video

Decline No one really knows what was the cause of the Mayan's decline. What they do know is that over-population occured as well as over use of land. Therefore less crops grew each year. This period also consisted of warfare within the city states. This disrupted their trade. This eventually led to great wars with other native groups.