The Maya Civilization

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The Maya civilization was one of the most advanced cultures in Mesoamerica, flourishing between 250 AD and 900 AD. They inhabited regions that are now Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and parts of Honduras and El Salvador. The Maya are renowned for their achievements in writing, mathematics, and astronomy, as they developed a complex calendar system.

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Their cities featured grand pyramids, palaces, and vibrant marketplaces. The Maya practiced agriculture, growing crops like maize and beans, which supported their large population and intricate society.

Key facts

Remember these

1The Maya civilization flourished from 250 AD to 900 AD.
2They developed a sophisticated calendar system.
3The Maya built grand pyramids and cities.

Timeline

When it happened

c. 250
The Maya Classic period of great cities begins
c. 900
Many southern Maya cities are abandoned
1517
Spanish sailors reach the Yucatán
1697
The Spanish conquer Nojpetén, the last independent Maya kingdom

Then & Now

History isn't really 'history' — it shapes today, every day.

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Potatoes, tomatoes, corn, and chocolate all came from the Americas — Europeans had never tasted them before 1492.

Question 1 of 2

What time period did the Maya civilization flourish?

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Question 2 of 2

What crop did the Maya primarily grow?

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