Publisher's Synopsis
Are the Mayans still around?
What is the importance of Chichen Itza's discovery?
How did this mighty civilization fall?
If you want answers to these intriguing questions, then keep reading...
The Mayans created an amazing society, full of surprises that keep us guessing how these people came to be and why - exactly - their civilization fell. Theories abound, archeologic discoveries both perplex and inspire us, but one thing remains: their story reads much more like our recent past than you'd ever imagined!
This book takes readers on a journey that few have taken, deep into the Mayans' lineage, customs, politics, and daily life. Join us as we delve deep into the Maya story, uncovering stories, facts, and theories about this important - yet perplexing - society:
- The bitter irony of Catholicism's spread in Maya culture
- Who was the "mother civilization" of Mesoamerica?
- Did they really practice human sacrifice?
- A different kind of calendar...
- What inspired the rise of city-states in this ancient culture?
- Did the Maya develop the wheel?
- How - and what did they use - to make paint
- Were the Maya peaceful?
- Inventions galore - but what did they invent that we still use today?
- Why - and how - did the Spanish decide to conquer the Maya?
- Did a megadrought kill off the Mayans?
- Heavens, Earth, and Underground: Not just for Hobbits
- How did the large cities influence Mayan society - and who ruled them?
You'll learn some fun facts - but will also be challenged with archaeologically-puzzling discoveries and learn of one man who escaped death-by-politics. (Exile wasn't good enough for some Mayan leaders; they meant to exterminate those who opposed them!)
Grab your copy of this book, and dive into the many astonishing elements of this ancient civilization!
