Postclassic Period

Definition

The Postclassic Period refers to a significant era in Mesoamerican history, spanning roughly from 900 to 1500 CE, marked by notable changes in cultural, political, and economic structures. During this time, complex societies like the Maya, Aztec, and Olmec evolved, adapting to new challenges and expanding their influence across the region. This period is characterized by increased warfare, trade, and urbanization, as well as the rise of powerful city-states.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Postclassic Period saw the decline of many Classic Maya city-states while new power dynamics emerged with the rise of the Aztec Empire.
2. Warfare intensified during this period as city-states competed for resources and territory, leading to the establishment of stronger military alliances.
3. Trade networks expanded significantly, connecting various regions and allowing for the exchange of goods such as cacao, textiles, and obsidian.
4. Cultural and religious practices evolved with an increased emphasis on ritual and sacrifice as means to appease deities and ensure agricultural fertility.
5. The Postclassic Period ended with European contact in the early 16th century, leading to profound transformations in Mesoamerican societies.

Review Questions

• How did the social structure of Mesoamerican civilizations change during the Postclassic Period?
  • During the Postclassic Period, the social structure of Mesoamerican civilizations became more hierarchical and complex. New classes emerged, including powerful military leaders and traders who gained influence through warfare and commerce. As urban centers grew, societal roles became more specialized, with artisans and merchants playing crucial roles in the economy. This shift was particularly evident in the rise of the Aztecs, who established a strong central authority that dictated social organization.
• In what ways did trade networks impact cultural exchange during the Postclassic Period among Mesoamerican civilizations?
  • Trade networks significantly enhanced cultural exchange during the Postclassic Period by facilitating interactions between different Mesoamerican civilizations. These networks allowed for not only goods but also ideas, technologies, and religious practices to spread across regions. The exchange of items such as cacao and textiles enriched local cultures and contributed to shared identities among various groups. As a result, these trade interactions helped create a more interconnected Mesoamerican world.
• Evaluate how the dynamics of warfare during the Postclassic Period contributed to the rise of the Aztec Empire and its expansion throughout Mesoamerica.
  • Warfare dynamics during the Postclassic Period were critical in shaping the rise of the Aztec Empire. As competition for resources intensified among various city-states, successful military campaigns allowed the Aztecs to expand their territory rapidly. Their ability to form alliances through strategic warfare enabled them to dominate other regional powers. Furthermore, their militaristic culture emphasized conquest and tribute systems that enriched their economy and further solidified their control over vast areas of Mesoamerica.

Related terms

Mesoamerican Civilizations: Culturally rich societies that developed in present-day Mexico and Central America, known for their advanced knowledge in agriculture, mathematics, astronomy, and architecture.

Urbanization: The process by which large numbers of people move to cities, resulting in the growth and development of urban centers during the Postclassic Period.

Trade Networks: Systems of exchange established between different Mesoamerican civilizations that facilitated the movement of goods, ideas, and cultural practices throughout the region.