Aztecs
What was the capital of the Aztec Empire?
Tenochtitlan
Describe the Mayan ball game Pok Ta Tok.
A ritualistic team game played with a rubber ball; players tried to get the ball through a high stone hoop.
Where was the Inca Empire located?
In the Andes Mountains of South America.
What does the term "chinampa" refer to?
A type of raised garden used by the Aztecs.
What was the eagle on the Mexican flag originally a symbol of?
The Aztec founding legend.
What is a chinampa?
A raised floating garden used for farming.
200: What are some of the advancements made by the Maya in astronomy and math?
They developed a complex calendar system and understood the concept of zero.
What was the significance of Pachacuti?
He expanded the Inca Empire and established its administrative structure.
What is the primary crop that the Aztecs cultivated?
Maize (corn)
How did the Aztecs bring fresh water to Tenochtitlan?
By building aqueducts.
Name two important feats accomplished by Moctezuma during his reign.
Fresh water aqueducts and protections from flooding with levees. (also: expansion)
Much of what we know about the Maya comes from what?
Hieroglyphic writings and codices.
What are quipus?
Knotted strings used for record-keeping and communication.
Define "Machu Picchu."
An ancient Inca city located in the Andes, known for its archaeological significance.
What was one of the fiercest weapons used by conquistadors?
Steel swords or firearms.
What was at the "heart" of Tenochtitlan?
The Templo Mayor, a stepped pyramid.
What were some theories about the rapid decline of the Maya civilization?
Overpopulation, warfare, and environmental factors.
What adaptations did the Incas use to live in the mountains?
They created terrace farming and built grass bridges.
What is the meaning of "Tenochtitlan"?
The place of the prickly pear cactus, as interpreted from the Aztec legend.
What did Aztec priests reportedly sacrifice annually?
Up to 20,000 people.
What was surprising about Hernan Cortes taking over the Aztecs?
He was able to defeat a powerful empire with a small number of men.
Explain the Mayan origin story of humans.
The gods created humans from maize dough.
What conqueror brought down the Inca with "Guns, Germs, and Steel"?
Francisco Pizarro
What does "quipu" translate to in English?
Knot (referring to the knotted strings used by the Incas).
What was the primary religion of the Inca?
They primarily worshipped the Sun god, Inti.