Postclassic Period

Definition

The Postclassic Period refers to the time frame in Mesoamerican history from around 900 AD to the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, characterized by a decline in monumental architecture and urban centers alongside significant cultural and economic changes. This period saw the emergence of new political entities, shifts in trade networks, and transformations in religious practices that were essential in shaping the final phases of Mayan civilization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Postclassic Period is marked by a shift away from the grand city-states of the Classic Period, leading to smaller, more dispersed populations.
2. Religious practices evolved during this period, with an increased emphasis on warrior deities and rituals associated with agricultural cycles.
3. Trade became more significant as regions began to establish long-distance trade networks that connected various Mesoamerican cultures.
4. Sculptural art and iconography during this time reflected new influences and themes, often depicting more humanistic and militaristic motifs.
5. The collapse of major city-states in the Classic Period led to political fragmentation, with emerging power centers like Chichen Itza gaining prominence.

Review Questions

• How did the Postclassic Period influence religious practices compared to earlier periods in Mayan civilization?
  • During the Postclassic Period, there was a notable transformation in religious practices, shifting towards a focus on warrior deities and agricultural cycles. This change reflected a response to the political fragmentation and social upheaval that characterized this era. Rituals became more diverse, incorporating elements that emphasized military prowess and community resilience, moving away from some of the complex ceremonies typical of the Classic Period.
• Discuss the role of long-distance trade networks during the Postclassic Period and their impact on Mayan society.
  • Long-distance trade networks played a crucial role during the Postclassic Period by fostering economic connections between various Mesoamerican civilizations. As political structures became more decentralized, trade helped maintain stability and cultural exchange. The exchange of goods such as obsidian, cacao, and textiles not only enriched local economies but also facilitated the spread of ideas and artistic styles across different regions, leading to a dynamic cultural landscape.
• Evaluate how cultural syncretism during the Postclassic Period affected the overall development of Mesoamerican societies leading up to the Spanish conquest.
  • Cultural syncretism during the Postclassic Period significantly influenced the development of Mesoamerican societies by blending various cultural practices and beliefs from diverse civilizations. As different groups interacted through trade and migration, they adopted new religious symbols, artistic styles, and social structures. This mixing created a rich tapestry of cultural expressions that would ultimately shape the identities of societies like the Maya as they faced external pressures from European colonization, allowing them to adapt and survive in unique ways amidst significant change.

Related terms

Toltecs: A Mesoamerican civilization that followed the decline of the Classic Period, known for their influence on later cultures and their capital at Tula.

Chichen Itza:

A major Mayan city during the Postclassic Period, recognized for its architectural achievements and extensive trade networks.

Cultural Syncretism: The blending of different cultural elements, which was prevalent during the Postclassic Period as various Mesoamerican civilizations interacted.