Mayan Kings and Cities

16-2 11/7/06

Maya Create Urban Kingdoms

Mayan civilization stretches from what is now southern Mexico to El Salvador

Mayan cities are supported by trade and agriculture

In Mayan society:Nobles merchants artisans

peasants

http://www.ankiewicz.com/photos/trips/guatemala/temple.jpg

TIKAL, GUATEMALA

Jade Death Mask

Mayan Religion and Art

Jaguar god - underworld

Mayan Hieroglyphics

Bubble Map - Defining Characteristicsof the Mayan civilization

Bubble Map - Defining Characteristicsof the Mayan civilization

Bubble Map - Defining Characteristicsof the Mayan civilization

Bubble Map - Defining Characteristicsof the Mayan civilization

Bubble Map - Defining Characteristicsof the Mayan civilization

Bubble Map - Defining Characteristicsof the Mayan civilization

Mysterious Mayan Decline

Late 800s – begin to abandon cities Theories of decline

Economic problemsWarfareEcological damage

Close Questions:

1.What is known about Mayan cities?2.How did religion shape Mayan life?3.Name two reasons that may explain the

decline of the Mayan civilization.4. What does the Popul Vuh tell about?5. When did sacrifice take place?6. What happened to the leader loser of the ball game? Why?