1. The Americas: A Separate World
Chapter 9 (P )

2. Earliest Americans Hunter-gatherers Small, nomadic groups
Development of agriculture = settlements then civilizations
Maize- became the most important crop
Highly nourishing & grows well in the tropical climate

3. Mesoamerica
Where the first complex societies in the Americas arose

4. The Olmec
Mesoamerica’s “mother culture”

5. The Olmec Pyramids, plazas, & monumental sculpture
Ceremonial centers, ritual ball games, ruling class
Directed a large trade network

6. The Zapotec Monte Alban- urban center
Early forms of hieroglyphic writing & a calendar system

7. The Chavin First influential civilization in South America
Established powerful worship centers

8. The Nazca & Moche Extensive irrigation & systems for farming
Crafted intricate ceramics & textiles & other decorative art