Document Based Question Essay on the Mayan, Incan and Aztec Societies

Essay by profeseJunior High, 9th grade March 2004

download word file, 2 pages 4.7

Downloaded 53 times

The Mayan, Aztec and Incan civilizations each contributed major accomplishments to the world today. These accomplishments established them as advanced societies during their time. The Incans built a large road system, devised a complex irrigation system and developed their own language. The Mayans constructed the largest structure known until modern times, made drastic accomplishments in mathematics, studied astronomy and formed a calendar. The Aztecs built well-organized cities and developed a writing system based on pictures.

To unite their empire, the Incans formed their own language and religion. They worshipped many g-ds and their ruler was a sun-g-d king. They also created a road that wound over 12,000 miles as shown in Document Five. This road went through mountains and deserts. This road system enabled armies to travel rapidly throughout the empire. The road also allowed news to travel faster than before. The road was used to send news to soldiers stationed up and down the road to put down rebellions throughout the empire.

The Incans also acquired great building skills. As shown in Document Six, the Incans built buildings without the use of a cement or mortar. These buildings have survived numerous earthquakes throughout many centuries. The need for more food led the Incans to build complex irrigation systems which enabled corn to grow in places it had not previously been able to. A son of an Incan princess once wrote about the complexity and organization of these irrigation channels as shown in Document Four.

The Mayans were advanced in the sense that they had unique architectural skills. They built the tallest structure in the world until modern times as shown in Document One. The Mayans dedicated these buildings to g-ds and important rulers. The priests performed services on top of structures like these and the people watched from the...