1. Mesoamerican Civilizations MayaAztecInca

3. Agriculture in Mesoamerica Maize (Corn) : By 3400 B.C. the most important crop in Mesoamerica

4. Agriculture in Mesoamerica Before Agriculture –Hunter-Gatherers –Move in search of big game –Groups remain small –Time consumed with hunting for food After Agriculture –Reliable and steady food source –Families settled forming communities –Developed new skills –Complex societies rose

5. Mayan Civilization Traits Religion and theocracy City-states Agriculture Calendar

6. Mayan Strength and Power United culture Loyal to the King Wealthy and prosperous Surplus of food fed larger population

7. Mayan Decline Physical and human resources funneled into religious activities Frequent warfare Population growth created a need for new land

8. Aztec Civilization Traits Religion and theocracy Powerful military Empire of tribute states Calendar

9. Aztec Strength and Power United culture Loyal to the Emperor Added land, power and prisoners for religious sacrifice

10. Aztec Decline Physical and human resources funneled into religious activities Need for prisoners to sacrifice makes warfare less deadly and aggressive Tribute states are rebellious

11. Incan Civilizations Traits Religion and theocracy Road system Welfare state and huge bureaucracy

12. Incan Strength and Power United culture Loyal to the Emperor Connected entire empire and aided control Cared for entire population in good and bad times

13. Incan Decline Physical and human resources funneled into religious activities Enemies could use roads to move troops People struggle to care for themselves without the welfare state