Essay On Mayan Civilization

The Mayan civilization was around for thousands of years before its mysterious end in 900 AD. While the Mayans had the same religion and language, they were not unified under one ruler. Each city-state has its own king and sometimes a queen. It was rare for a woman to rule, but not uncommon. The rulers of these cities were noble families, and the city went to father to son but, if there was no son, it went to the king’s brother.
The cities were constantly at war with each other because this was the only way another family could take over. The larger the city, the larger the army and the more power it had. The warriors of the city were sometimes very important because they would work with priests to determine their next sacrifice. However,

Lady Yohl Ik’nai’s grandson, K 'inich Janaab ' Pakal, was the king of Palenque. He began his rule when he was only 12 years old. During his reign, he expanded Palenque territory into the western part of Mayan states. He emphasized the arts and architecture. Pakal oversaw the construction of the Temple of Inscription, the largest stepped pyramid in the mesoamerican area. Pakal ruled over Palenque for 68 years and later died at the age of 80. After his death, the Mayan people worshipped him as a god. Yik 'in Chan K 'awiil was considered one of the most successful kings of Tikal. K’awiil began his reign in 734. As the 27th ruler, he expanded Tikal territory and ordered the construction of great buildings and architecture, some of which have lasted to this day. He gave the city-state it’s power back by defeating the ruler of El Peru in battle and later capturing the king of Naranjo. K’awiil’s rule ended in 746 with his death. Lady Six Sky became queen in 682 AD. She established a new dynasty when she arrived to Naranjo. On a few of her monuments, she is shown as a warrior king with special powers. It is also believed that she performed important calendric rituals. She invaded and conquered Ucanal, which gave Naranjo great power that challenged other