K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo' was the founder and first ruler of the Maya city-state of Copán, located in present-day Honduras. His reign is traditionally dated to the period between 426 and 437 AD, although some scholars suggest his rule might have begun earlier, around 416 AD.
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Name: The name K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo' translates roughly to "First Quetzal Macaw" in English, with "K'inich" referring to the sun god, "Yax" meaning first, and "K'uk' Mo'" being a reference to the quetzal bird and macaw, which were significant in Maya culture and symbolism.
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Origins: There is considerable debate about the origins of K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo'. Some evidence suggests he might have come from the region of Tikal or other parts of the Maya Civilization in the Petén Basin, indicating possible links with established Maya polities.
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Archaeological Evidence: His tomb, known as the Margarita Tomb, was discovered beneath Copán's Acropolis in 1989. It contained numerous artifacts, including jade masks, shell carvings, and a large quantity of ceramic vessels, which reflect his high status. The tomb's location under the later structures of the Acropolis suggests his importance to the founding of Copán.
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Legacy: K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo' established the dynastic lineage of Copán, which would continue for over four centuries. His reign marked the beginning of Copán's ascent as a major power in the southern Maya area. His successors often commemorated him in inscriptions, indicating his enduring significance in the city's history.
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Iconography: He is frequently depicted in art and inscriptions with symbols associated with the sun and the quetzal, reinforcing his divine and royal status.
For further reading on K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo' and his era:
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