Commoners

Definition

Commoners in Maya society were the majority of the population who were not part of the elite class. They played crucial roles in agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship, forming the backbone of the economy and providing essential goods and services to the elite and the community. Their contributions were vital for the sustenance of the city-states and were often organized into various labor groups.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Commoners made up the largest segment of the Maya population, performing essential agricultural work that sustained cities.
2. They lived in simple houses made of perishable materials like wood and thatch, contrasting with the grand structures built for the elite.
3. Commoners were often organized into labor groups to facilitate large-scale projects such as construction and agriculture.
4. Their social mobility was limited, but exceptional skill or service could sometimes elevate individuals within the social hierarchy.
5. In addition to farming, commoners were also involved in trade and crafting goods, contributing to both local economies and long-distance trade networks.

Review Questions

• How did commoners contribute to the overall functioning of Maya society beyond agricultural production?
  • Commoners played a multifaceted role in Maya society by engaging not only in agriculture but also in trade and craftsmanship. They provided necessary goods like pottery, textiles, and tools that supported both local markets and long-distance trade. Their involvement in labor groups enabled large-scale projects like temple construction and infrastructure development, showcasing their importance in maintaining societal functions beyond mere food production.
• Compare the lives of commoners to those of nobles in terms of social status, living conditions, and economic roles.
  • Commoners lived under significantly different conditions than nobles, who enjoyed wealth, power, and lavish living spaces. While nobles resided in elaborate homes made of stone or masonry, commoners typically lived in simpler structures made from wood and thatch. Economically, commoners were primarily responsible for agriculture and trade, whereas nobles controlled resources and had political power over governance. This stark contrast illustrates a rigid social structure where commoners had limited opportunities for upward mobility compared to their noble counterparts.
• Evaluate the impact of commoners on the sustainability of Maya city-states during periods of political change or environmental stress.
  • Commoners were integral to the sustainability of Maya city-states, especially during times of political upheaval or environmental challenges. Their agricultural practices ensured food security while their crafts supported economic stability even when elite power structures faced instability. The reliance on commoners meant that any disruption to their activities—whether from conflict or drought—could severely affect the entire society. Thus, the resilience of commoner populations played a key role in how well city-states adapted to changes in their environment or governance.

Related terms

Nobility: The upper class in Maya society, consisting of rulers, priests, and high-ranking officials who held significant power and influence.

Caste System: A social structure that categorizes individuals into different social classes, where commoners had a distinct status compared to nobles and priests.

Economy: The system of production and trade in Maya society, heavily reliant on the agricultural output of commoners and their role in local markets.