Module 9 Native American migration Flashcards
Who were the first inhabitants of North America?
Native peoples who established civilizations before European explorers
These civilizations existed long before Columbus’s arrival.
Why is it difficult to gather information about Native American history?
Lack of documentary evidence and written language
Unlike cultures such as Sumeria, Native American societies left no written records.
What is the Bering Strait Hypothesis?
Theory that a land bridge appeared during an ice age, allowing migration from Asia to the Americas
This theory suggests movement from Siberia to Alaska.
What is the Pacific Ocean Hypothesis?
Theory that some Native Americans crossed the Pacific Ocean by boat from Asia
Suggests dual migration methods from Asia.
When did the Olmec civilization thrive?
Approximately 1200 to 400 BC
The Olmec civilization is considered a precursor to the Maya and Aztec civilizations.
What does the term ‘Olmec’ mean?
Rubber people
The name was given by other natives due to the Olmec’s production of rubber.
What was the significance of San Lorenzo in Olmec civilization?
It was a significant trading center developed around 1200 BC
La Venta later became the capital city around 900 BC.
What is a notable feature of the Olmec civilization?
Colossal stone heads depicting rulers
These heads stand as tall as ten feet and are primarily found in museums.
What did the Olmec religion involve?
Worship of deities and apex predators
They believed their deities could transform into animals.
What geographic regions did the Maya civilization encompass?
Yucatan Peninsula, Guatemala, and Honduras
The Maya civilization rose to prominence around AD 300.
What are the two regions of Maya geography?
Highlands and Lowlands
Highlands have volcanic mountains; Lowlands consist of swamps and forests.
What is the correct term for the people of the Maya civilization?
Maya
The term ‘Mayan’ is incorrect when referring to the people.
What was the role of kings in Maya society?
Leaders of the army and religious rituals, believed to have divine right
Monarchs were also referred to as ‘Ahau.’
What celestial bodies were significant to the Maya?
Sun, Moon, and Venus
The movements of these bodies were believed to influence events and agriculture.
What numerical concept did Maya mathematicians understand?
The concept of zero
Their math used symbols: a dot for one, a bar for five, and a shell for zero.
What are the two primary calendars used by the Maya?
Haab and Tzolkin
The Haab has 365 days; the Tzolkin has 260 days.
What is the significance of the Temple of Kukulkan?
A monumental structure designed to cast a shadow resembling a serpent during equinoxes
This pyramid is located in Chichen Itza.
What is the nature of the Maya writing system?
Consisted of hundreds of glyphs representing words and sounds
The writing can be read in columns from left to right in a zigzag pattern.
How many codices of Maya literature remain today?
Four codices
The codices primarily deal with astrology and rituals.
What led to the decline of the Maya civilization around 900?
No definitive reason; theories include earthquakes, disease, warfare, and famine
A combination of these factors likely contributed to their collapse.
