Postclassic

Definition

The Postclassic refers to a specific period in Mesoamerican history, approximately from 900 to 1500 CE, characterized by significant cultural and political changes following the Classic period. During this time, many of the great city-states of the earlier period declined, leading to the rise of new powers and the reorganization of trade networks, religious practices, and artistic expressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Postclassic period saw the decline of many significant urban centers from the Classic Period, such as Teotihuacan and Tikal.
2. During this time, new political entities emerged, including the Toltecs and later the Aztecs, who established powerful city-states and expanded their influence.
3. Religious practices evolved significantly in the Postclassic era, with an increased emphasis on warfare and sacrifice as means to appease deities.
4. Trade networks expanded during the Postclassic, connecting diverse regions of Mesoamerica and facilitating cultural exchange among different groups.
5. Artistic expressions also transformed in this period, with changes in styles and materials reflecting the shifting cultural landscape.

Review Questions

• How did the decline of Classic Period city-states impact the rise of new powers during the Postclassic?
  • The decline of Classic Period city-states led to a power vacuum in Mesoamerica that allowed new political entities to rise. As cities like Teotihuacan weakened, regions previously under their influence became more autonomous. This shift facilitated the emergence of civilizations like the Toltecs and Aztecs, who capitalized on the existing trade routes and social structures to establish their dominance in the region.
• Discuss how religious practices shifted from the Classic to Postclassic periods in Mesoamerica.
  • In transitioning from the Classic to Postclassic periods, religious practices became increasingly intertwined with themes of warfare and sacrifice. The earlier emphasis on agricultural fertility and celestial events shifted towards a more militaristic approach that viewed human sacrifice as essential for appeasing gods. This change reflected not only evolving beliefs but also the growing importance of military conquests in establishing legitimacy for emerging powers.
• Evaluate the significance of trade networks during the Postclassic period and their impact on cultural exchange in Mesoamerica.
  • Trade networks during the Postclassic period were vital for cultural exchange among Mesoamerican civilizations. The expansion of these networks enabled diverse groups to share goods, ideas, and technologies, facilitating interactions that shaped cultural identities. This interconnectedness allowed emerging powers like the Aztecs to consolidate resources and influence over larger territories while promoting innovation in art and religion that reflected a blend of various regional traditions.

Related terms

Classic Period: The Classic Period in Mesoamerica, spanning from about 250 to 900 CE, is noted for the emergence of powerful city-states, monumental architecture, and advanced cultural achievements among civilizations like the Maya and Teotihuacan.

Toltecs: A prominent civilization during the Postclassic period, known for its military conquests and influence over later cultures, particularly the Aztecs.

Aztec Empire: The last major Mesoamerican civilization that rose to power in the Postclassic period, known for its extensive trade networks, military prowess, and complex societal structure.