Notes: Chapter 9 “The Americas: A Separate World”

A Land Bridge  Most experts believe the first people of the Americas crossed over from Asia on a land bridge called Beringia, which crossed the Bering Strait. Later, others may have arrived by boat.  The first Americans arrived at the end of the Ice Age, which lasted until 10,000 B.C.

Hunters and Gatherers  The first Americans lived as hunters and gatherers, tracking large prey such as the Wooly Mammoth.  The first Americans probably followed prey across the land bridge and, eventually, south into the Americas.

Farming  Around 7,000 B.C. the early Americans began experimenting with farming. By 3400 B.C. farming in Mexico included squashes, gourds, beans, avocados, chilies, and, most importantly, corn or maize.  The use of farming provided a more reliable food supply, allowing population to grow and settle in permanent communities.

The Olmec (Central America)  The Olmec, found just west of the Yucatan Peninsula, were Mesoamerica’s first known civilization builders.  The Olmec lived in a fertile area with plenty of water for good irrigation. They used their resources to build thriving communities.  The Olmec also used a highly developed trade network.

The Zapotec (Central America)  West of the Olmec were the Zapotec, who lived in a mountain valley region with fertile soil.  The Zapotec built stone platforms and temples, worked on monumental sculptures, and developed a writing system and calendar.  The Zapotec built the first real urban center in the Americas, called Monte Alban.

Chavin (South America)  culture flourished between 900 and 200 B.C., their culture spread throughout northern Peru and influenced the civilizations to come after them.

Nazca (South America)  flourished along the southern coast of Peru between 200 B.C. and A.D  Developed extensive irrigation systems, including underground canals.  Made beautiful textiles and pottery.  Created the Nazca Lines, a group of pictures carved into the ground. There are over 1,000 pictures of animals, plants, humans, and geometric shapes.

Moche (South America)  The Moche lived on the northern coast of Peru around A.D. 100 to 700.  Built impressive irrigation systems.  Grew crops such as corn, beans, potatoes, squash, and peanuts.  The civilization had enormous wealth with beautiful jewelry.