Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Central America refers to the region located between North and South America, consisting of seven countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. It is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Mesoamerica refers to the ancient civilizations that thrived in Central America before European colonization. This includes the Maya civilization with their impressive pyramids and hieroglyphic writing system.
Mayan Civilization: The Mayan Civilization was one of the most advanced pre-Columbian societies in Mesoamerica. They were known for their sophisticated calendar system, monumental architecture, and intricate artwork.
Tikal: Tikal is an ancient Mayan city located in present-day Guatemala. It was one of the largest urban centers during the Classic period of Mayan civilization and is famous for its towering pyramids.