UGC 112 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Teotihuacan, Altepetl, Mesoamerican Region
5 Apr 2016
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Document Summary
Between 200 to 900 a. d. , massive development in mesoamerican region. Did not share common languages, religious ideas, or political organizations, but managed to grow significantly in agriculture and science. Known as the classic period of mesoamerican civilization. Larger than nearly all european and asian cities at the same time. City structure based upon worship of gods and spirits centered on nature and solar cycles. Featured gods related to productiveness, weather, and agriculture. Allowed for agricultural production year-round, even in both dry and cold seasons. Social structure with elements of a powerful aristocracy, wealthy bureaucracy and a strong clergy. Clear class delineations visible through clothing and wealth of living spaces. Unlike other civilizations of tis time, teotihuacan did not concentrate power in the hands of a single ruler. No proof of a dynasty or biological hierarchy. More likely a small group of people amongst the elite embers of the aristocracy. Relied on a system of signs and notations (cuneiform)
