Maya Empire
Definition
The Maya Empire was an ancient civilization based in Central America from about 2000 BCE until around 900 CE. They're known for their advanced writing system, architecture, mathematics, calendar systems, and astronomical knowledge.
Analogy
Imagine if your high school science club ran a country - that's kind of what the Maya Empire was like! They loved learning about the world around them and used this knowledge to create incredible things.
Related terms
Hieroglyphics: This is a type of writing system that uses pictures instead of letters or words. The Mayans had one of only three independent hieroglyphic systems in history!
Tikal: One of the most important cities in the Maya Empire located in present-day Guatemala.
Chichen Itza: A major city-state within the Maya empire known for its architectural wonders such as El Castillo pyramid.
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