Early Civilizations of The Mesoamerica Human Settlement in the Americas

Early Civilizations of The Mesoamerica Meso = middle Olmec Toltec Maya Aztec

Farming: A. Around 5,000 BC, humans Central America learned to farm. B. At first, they grew corn, beans, and squash. C. Farming allowed for civilizations to emerge. Squash Beans Corn (Maize)

The Olmecan

Olmec Civilization 1250 BC – 200 BC Built first large cities in Mesoamerica Constructed Pyramids Est. trade networks Developed a system of writing

This basalt head measures 1 This basalt head measures 1.5 meters high and it weighs more than 20 tons. 

The “Mother Culture” Many historians consider the Olmec civilization the “mother culture” of Mesoamerica. A mother culture is a way of life that strongly influences later cultures. The Olmec empire led to the development of other civilizations, such as the Maya and the Aztec.

The Toltecs Highlands of central Mexico, 900 to 1200 AD Major trade center Pyramids, temples Militaristic society Established trade network which stretched into northern South America Developed impressive metal-working industry Specialized in jewelry Climate change, social conflict led to decline

Columns in the form of Toltec warriors in Tula

Toltecs

Mayan Civilization The Maya civilization began around 1500 BC in present-day Mexico and Guatemala. Est. separate city-states Talent for Engineering and mathematics Pyramids and great temples Warrior society

Chichen Itza

The Aztec The strong Aztec Empire, founded in central Mexico in 1325, lasted until the Spanish conquest in 1521. The Aztecs built a rich and powerful empire Complex social structure, a demanding religion, and a rich culture. worshipped many gods and regularly made human sacrifices to please the gods. valued art and architecture. studied astronomy and devised a calendar.

Tenochtitlan