1. Maya
Rise: 200 BCE Fall: 900 CE

2. Mayan Rise of the Mayans:
Emerged around 250 and thrived between
Religious beliefs important
Theocracy
Independent city-states
Intensive agriculture
Civilization Rose Because:
They had a united culture
They were loyal to their king
They had a wealthy and prosperous culture
They were able to produce more food to feed a larger population

3. Maya -- Fall Again, Not sure! Possibly invasion by the Toltecs
Increased warfare between Mayan City-states
Population growth and over use of resources

4. Maya - Society Hierarchy King Nobles – priests and leading warriors
Merchants & skilled artisans
Peasants

5. Mayan Reasons for Decline:
Many physical and human resources used for religious activities
Frequent warfare occurred between kingdoms
Population growth created a need for more land

6. Maya - Political King = Holy Figure Hereditary position…dynasties
Independent city-states