Topic 9 - Pre-columbian American Civilizations

Question 1

What were the three main things that Pre-Columbian Civilizations had in common?

Answer 1

They were diverse, overcame their environment, and were organized and religious.

Question 2

What were the three main civilizations in South America/Central America?

Answer 2

Aztecs (Central America), Maya(Amazon/Rainforest), and Inca(Andes Mountains)

Question 3

Key characteristics of Aztecs

Answer 3

Built floating farms called chinampas
Collection of city-states
Developed a complex calendar system and knew a lot about the stars

Question 4

Key characteristics of Mayans

Answer 4

Collection of city-states
large ceremonial cities in the rain forest
knew a lot about the stars
calendar system
like the Aztecs

Question 5

Key characteristics of Inca empire

Answer 5

Large empire
grew potatoes
built complex road systems in Andes Mountains

Question 6

How did pre-columbian North American civilizations have diverse living conditions?

Answer 6

The Tenochititlan, Cuzco and Cahokia lived in large cities

Cherokee and Iroquois farmed and lived in small villages and towns

Question 7

How did pre-columbian South American civilizations have diverse cultural practices?

Answer 7

some were very intelligent about the stars and calendar and others practice human sacrifice

Question 8

Define Environmental Possibilism

Answer 8

Theory that people/civilizations can overcome their environments.