Mesoamerican Civilizations
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Table of Contents
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"...By the late 15th century, three types of American societies had emerged. There were nomadic groups, sedentary or semi-sedentary groups, and groups living in large population settlements supported by agricultural surpluses. This third group really only existed in Mesoamerica, supported by the vitality and fertility of the soil in what is modern-day Mexico and Central America..."
Key Terms
- Mesoamerica
- Beringia
- Agricultural Revolution
- Olmec Civilization
- Maya
- Yucatan Peninsula
- Mayan Script
- Aztec Empire
- Triple Alliance - Mexica, Texcoco, Tlacopan
- Tenochtitlan
- Inca
- Peru
- Andes Mountains
- Ayllu
- Mita System
Guided Viewing Questions
- How did Native Americans settle North and South America?
- What impact did the Olmec civilization have on the culture and development of Mesoamerica?
- What sorts of civilizations did Native Americans build in Mesoamerica prior to 1500 CE? What were the chief characteristics of the Maya?
- Compare and contrast the Maya & the Aztecs.
- How did the Inca differ from the Mexican civilizations like the Olmec, Maya, and Aztecs?