The Ancient Maya

The book spans the Maya’s development across modern-day southern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and western Honduras, covering over 3,000 years. It begins with their origins in the Archaic period (before 2000 BCE), detailing their transition to settled farming communities by the Preclassic (2000 BCE–250 CE), marked by early centers like El Mirador. The Classic period (250–900 CE) is the focus, showcasing the Maya’s peak with city-states like Tikal, Palenque, and Copán, known for monumental architecture (pyramids, palaces), advanced writing (hieroglyphs), mathematics (including the concept of zero), and astronomy (calendars like the Long Count). Sharer explores their political organization—independent city-states led by divine kings (ajaw)—and cultural achievements, such as the Popol Vuh creation myth.

The Postclassic period (900–1500 CE) covers the decline of Classic centers, likely due to drought, warfare, and overpopulation, and the rise of new powers like Chichén Itzá and Mayapán, influenced by Toltec interactions. The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century led to conquest, disease, and cultural suppression, though Maya communities persisted, adapting to colonial rule. The book