The Classic Maya
Astronomy, mathematics and writing in the rainforest
See it on the timeline →In depth
Tikal, Calakmul and Palenque were the capitals of a system of rival city-states rather than one empire. Maya script is the only fully developed writing system to arise independently in the Americas, and was largely deciphered only in the 1970s and 80s — whereupon the "peaceful stargazers" turned out to have practised extensive warfare and dynastic politics. The 9th-century collapse is linked to prolonged drought, soil erosion and political overextension combined. The Maya never disappeared; some six million live in the region today.
For children
In the rainforests of Central America the Maya built cities with pyramids and observatories. They had a full writing system, used the number zero, and made calendars accurate enough to predict eclipses centuries ahead.
Connects to
Part of Terra Saga — the story of Earth on a timeline. terrasaga.org