1. MAI: Government & Rulers Red – copy word for word Yellow – put in own words Green – follow along & discuss (notes not necessary)

2. Geography Review  Describe the geography of the Mayans, Aztecs, & Incas  Mayans – Yucatan Peninsula: mountain regions, lowland areas, rainforests  Aztecs – Valley of Mexico: swampy lake between high mountains, little wood or stone for building  Incas – Andes Mountains & Cuzco Valley: mountains, rainforests, & deserts  How did geography & climate influence the Mayans, Aztecs, & Incas?

3. Mayans: Background  Hieroglyphic writing system  Remembered for codices, number system, & advances in astronomy

4. Mayans: Government  No central ruler  Independent city-states  Fought each other to expand rule & gain riches  Pacal II – ruled city- state of Palenque for almost 70 years & started massive building program

5. Aztecs: Background  Started as nomads who settled in Valley of Mexico  Worked as mercenaries for other city-states

6. Aztecs: Government  Built capital at Tenochtitlan  Expanded lands through alliances & war  Demanded tribute from defeated people  Went to war to get prisoners for slaves & sacrifices

7. Incas: Background  Inca peoples settled in Cuzco Valley  Pachacuti led Incas & conquered neighbors to expand empire

8. Incas: Government  Empire connected by road network & chasquis  Rulers required people to work for the government for the part of every year  Didn’t have written language or money