1. What similarities existed between the early empires of Latin America
What similarities existed between the early empires of Latin America? Notes #34

2. Three empires of early Latin America were the Maya (300 – 900), Aztec (1200 – 1500), and Inca (1400 – 1500).

3. Each empire created highly developed and organized civilizations, with strict social classes, ruled by chiefs or emperors.
Maya Chief
Aztec Emperor 
 Aztec warrior

4. Each empire made advancements in scientific knowledge.
Incas
performing
surgery 
Maya calendar
Maya numbering
system

5. Maya “slash-and-burn”
Each empire’s agricultural systems involved using creative farming techniques to adapt to their environments.
Maya “slash-and-burn”
Inca terrace farming

6. Each empire built temples and practiced rituals to please their gods.
Aztec temple and human sacrifices
(possibly 20,000 sacrifices per year)

7. Inca road system (through the Andes Mountains)
Each empire made advancements in developing engineering and architecture.
Inca road system (through the Andes Mountains)
Aztec temple

8. Aztec city of Tenochtitlan Inca city of Machu Picchu
Just like early Africans, early Latin Americans are also recognized as being advanced before Europeans made contact with them.
Aztec city of Tenochtitlan
Inca city of Machu Picchu