Pre-Columbian

Pre-Columbian Era

The term "Pre-Columbian" refers to the period in the history of the Americas before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492. This era encompasses the history and cultures of the indigenous peoples of the Americas prior to significant European influence. The Pre-Columbian era is characterized by the development of complex societies, advanced agricultural practices, and significant achievements in art, architecture, and astronomy.

Major Civilizations

Mesoamerica

Mesoamerica is a region that extends from central Mexico through Central America. It was home to several advanced civilizations, including the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec cultures.

• Olmec Civilization: Often considered the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica, the Olmecs flourished from around 1500 BCE to 400 BCE. They are known for their colossal head sculptures and contributions to later Mesoamerican cultures.

• Maya Civilization: The Maya civilization reached its peak during the Classic Period (250-900 CE). They are renowned for their hieroglyphic script, advanced knowledge of astronomy, and impressive architectural achievements such as the pyramids at Tikal and Chichen Itza.

• Aztec Empire: The Aztecs, also known as the Mexica, established a powerful empire in central Mexico. Their capital, Tenochtitlan, was one of the largest cities in the world at the time of the Spanish conquest.

Andean Civilizations

The Andean region of South America was home to several sophisticated cultures, including the Inca Empire, which was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America.

• Inca Empire: The Inca Empire, with its capital at Cusco, was known for its extensive road network, agricultural terraces, and architectural marvels such as Machu Picchu. The Incas developed a centralized government and a unique system of record-keeping using quipu.

• Moche and Nazca Cultures: The Moche (100-700 CE) and Nazca (100 BCE-800 CE) cultures are known for their intricate pottery, textiles, and geoglyphs, such as the famous Nazca Lines.

Cultural Achievements

Agriculture

Pre-Columbian societies developed advanced agricultural techniques, including the use of chinampas (floating gardens) by the Aztecs and terrace farming by the Incas. They cultivated a variety of crops, such as maize, beans, squash, and potatoes, which became staples in their diets.

Art and Architecture

Pre-Columbian art and architecture are characterized by monumental structures, intricate carvings, and vibrant murals. The Maya are particularly noted for their stelae and temple-pyramids, while the Aztecs are known for their massive stone sculptures and ceremonial centers.

Science and Astronomy

Many Pre-Columbian cultures had a deep understanding of astronomy and mathematics. The Maya developed a complex calendar system and were able to predict solar and lunar eclipses. The Inca used their knowledge of the stars for agricultural planning and navigation.

Also see

• History of the Americas
• Indigenous peoples of the Americas
• Colonial history of the United States
• Mesoamerican chronology
• Inca society