Postclassic period

Definition

The postclassic period is a significant era in Mesoamerican history, generally dated from around 900 CE to the Spanish conquest in the early 16th century. This period is characterized by the decline of major urban centers from the classic era, such as Teotihuacan, while new political entities and cultures emerged, particularly in the Maya region and central Mexico, marked by increased regionalism and complex societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The postclassic period saw significant regional fragmentation in Mesoamerica, leading to the rise of various smaller states and city-states.
2. While major urban centers like Teotihuacan declined during this time, cities such as Tula and later Tenochtitlan emerged as important political and cultural hubs.
3. Trade networks remained vital during the postclassic period, connecting various regions and allowing for cultural exchange despite political fragmentation.
4. Religious practices evolved significantly during this era, with a growing emphasis on human sacrifice as part of rituals among emerging powers like the Aztecs.
5. The postclassic period ultimately set the stage for the encounters between indigenous civilizations and European powers that would dramatically alter Mesoamerican societies.

Review Questions

• How did the political landscape of Mesoamerica change during the postclassic period compared to the classic period?
  • During the postclassic period, Mesoamerica experienced significant political fragmentation as major urban centers from the classic period declined. New smaller states and city-states emerged, with power shifting towards regions like central Mexico and the Maya area. This change led to increased regionalism, where local cultures developed their own distinct identities and governance structures, contrasting with the more centralized control seen in classic times.
• Discuss the cultural developments that occurred in Mesoamerica during the postclassic period and how they reflect changes in society.
  • The postclassic period saw cultural shifts reflected in art, religion, and social practices across Mesoamerica. As traditional city-states declined, new artistic styles emerged alongside evolving religious practices that emphasized human sacrifice, particularly among the Aztecs. The fusion of earlier traditions with new influences led to a dynamic cultural landscape that was marked by innovation while still rooted in Mesoamerican heritage.
• Evaluate the impact of trade networks during the postclassic period on Mesoamerican societies and their eventual encounters with Europeans.
  • Trade networks played a crucial role in shaping Mesoamerican societies during the postclassic period by facilitating cultural exchanges among diverse regions. These interactions not only helped maintain economic stability despite political fragmentation but also prepared indigenous societies for future encounters with European powers. As trade routes connected various cultures and facilitated access to new ideas and technologies, they laid foundational elements that influenced how these civilizations responded to Spanish colonization.

Related terms

Maya Civilization:

A Mesoamerican civilization known for its advanced writing system, architecture, mathematics, and astronomy, flourishing during both the classic and postclassic periods.

Toltec Culture: An influential culture in central Mexico during the postclassic period, known for its military conquests and artistic achievements, particularly in metallurgy and stone carving.

Aztec Empire:

A dominant empire in Mesoamerica that rose during the late postclassic period, known for its complex social structure, powerful military, and rich cultural traditions.