Maya-People
The Maya-People, also known as the Maya Civilization, are an indigenous group native to Mesoamerica, particularly in modern-day Guatemala, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. The Maya civilization is noted for its advanced knowledge in astronomy, mathematics, art, architecture, and writing system.
History
- Preclassic Period (2000 BC - 250 AD): This era saw the emergence of the Maya culture with the establishment of early ceremonial centers. The Maya developed complex societies and monumental architecture.
- Classic Period (250 AD - 900 AD): Often considered the peak of Maya civilization, this period was characterized by the construction of grand cities like Tikal, Palenque, and Copan. The Maya created elaborate art, refined their writing system, and made significant advancements in astronomy and mathematics.
- Postclassic Period (900 AD - 1524 AD): After the decline of major city-states, the Maya continued to thrive in various smaller centers. There was a shift towards more militaristic societies, and new cities like Mayapan and Chichen Itza rose to prominence.
- Colonial Period: With the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, many Maya traditions were suppressed, though many cultural practices and languages survived through adaptation and syncretism with Catholicism.
- Modern Era: Today, the Maya people continue to live in their ancestral homelands, maintaining their cultural identity, languages, and traditions despite historical and ongoing challenges.
Culture
- Language: There are over 30 Maya languages still spoken, with Yucatec, K'iche', and Q'eqchi' being some of the most widely used.
- Religion: Traditional Maya religion involves the worship of various gods representing natural forces, celestial bodies, and ancestors. Many Maya today practice a blend of indigenous beliefs with Catholicism.
- Art and Architecture: Maya art includes intricate carvings, murals, and sculptures, often depicting historical events, religious themes, and astronomical phenomena. Their architecture features stepped pyramids, palaces, and ball courts.
- Writing System: The Maya developed one of the earliest known writing systems in the Americas, using hieroglyphs to record historical events, rituals, and astronomical observations.
- Astronomy and Mathematics: The Maya were skilled astronomers, developing a calendar system that included a 260-day sacred calendar, a 365-day solar calendar, and a long count calendar. They also used a base-20 (vigesimal) number system and had a concept of zero.
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