Ancient American civilizations

Main thing

Ancient American civilizations, including the Olmec, Maya, Aztec, Inca, and Caral-Supe, were complex societies with rich cultures, advanced technologies, and intricate social structures. They developed unique systems of writing, mathematics, and architecture, and their influence can still be seen in modern American cultures.

For example, the Olmec civilization, often considered the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica, developed the first Mesoamerican writing system and calendar. This knowledge was passed down and evolved over time, with each civilization adding its own contributions. The date of these civilizations span from around 1600 BC with the Olmec civilization to the 16th century AD with the fall of the Inca civilization.

Traces of other previously unknown civilizations in the Americas continue to be found. For example, the remains of buildings of an unknown civilization in the Amazon, 2500-1000 years old, have recently been found.

Terms

• Olmec Civilization (1600-350 BC): This was the first Mesoamerican civilization, known for developing the first Mesoamerican writing system and calendar. Example: The Olmec heads, massive stone sculptures, are iconic remnants of this civilization.

• Maya Civilization (2000 BC-900 AD): A Mesoamerican civilization known for its hieroglyphic script, architecture, mathematics, and astronomical system. Example: The Maya city of Chichen Itza, with its famous pyramid, is a testament to their architectural prowess.

• Aztec Civilization (1345-1521 AD): Also known as the Mexica, they were known for their complex social, political, and religious structures. Example: The Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, was a large, sophisticated city built on a lake.

• Inca Civilization (1438-1533 AD): This civilization was based in the Andean highlands of South America and was known for its extensive road system and terraced farming. Example: Machu Picchu is a well-preserved Inca city that showcases their architectural skills.

• Caral-Supe Civilization (3000-1800 BC): Also known as the Norte Chico civilization, it's one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas, known for its monumental architecture. Example: The city of Caral, with its large pyramids and plazas, is a significant archaeological site.

An analogy

Think of these civilizations as different branches of a tree, each growing in its own direction and developing unique characteristics, but all rooted in the same soil of the Americas. Just as branches are part of the same tree, these civilizations shared common elements, such as agriculture and trade, but also developed unique features, like the Maya's hieroglyphic script or the Inca's terraced farming.

A main misconception

A common misconception is that these civilizations were primitive or less advanced than their Old World counterparts. In reality, they had sophisticated systems of writing, mathematics, and governance, and their architectural achievements rival those of any other ancient civilization. For instance, the Maya had a complex calendar system, and the Inca built an extensive road network across the rugged Andes mountains.

The history

These civilizations developed over thousands of years, with the Olmec civilization emerging around 1600-1400 BC and the Inca civilization lasting until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. They evolved independently from the Old World civilizations, creating unique cultures and technologies. As the famous historian Gordon F. Ekholm said, "We no longer think of Mesoamerica as a 'New World,' but rather as an 'Alternate World.'"

Three cases how to use it right now

1. In Education: Understanding these civilizations can provide valuable context for studying the history and cultures of the Americas. For example, a history teacher might use the Maya's advanced mathematical system to illustrate the sophistication of ancient American civilizations. The main benefits of using this knowledge are a deeper understanding of world history and a broader perspective on human achievement.

2. In Tourism: Knowledge of these civilizations can enhance visits to archaeological sites. For instance, a tourist visiting Machu Picchu with knowledge of Inca culture and history would have a richer, more meaningful experience. The main benefits of using this knowledge are a deeper appreciation of the site and a more engaging and educational travel experience.

3. In Cultural Studies: These civilizations provide valuable case studies for understanding how societies develop and function. For example, a sociologist might study the Aztec's social hierarchy to explore how power and resources were distributed in their society. The main benefits of using this knowledge are new insights into social structures and cultural development.

Interesting facts

1. The Olmec civilization is often called the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica because it laid the foundation for later civilizations.

2. The Maya civilization had a written language, one of only five civilizations in the world to develop writing independently.

3. The Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, built on a lake, was one of the largest cities in the world at the time of the Spanish conquest.

4. The Inca Empire, at its height, was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America.

5. The Caral-Supe civilization in Peru is one of the oldest known civilizations in the Americas, dating back to around 3000 BC.