ANTHROP 2VV3 Lecture : The Late Preclassic
9 Jan 2012
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Document Summary
Crystallization of distinct art style and the writing system. Calendrical dates and hieroglyphic texts carved on buildings at a number of centers. Most in the south (highlands, pacific coast) Area later occupied by maya and others. At least 2 distinct writing systems suggests that there are two different lanuages/cultures. Both have long count calendrical system (like years) Similarities suggest they developed together (in close communication and interaction) Several very large capitals controlled smaller centres and their surrounding territory. Refers to both highlands and pacific coastal plain. With and without carved stone monuments (iconography) Many indicate 2 different kinds of political organization, or traditions of expressing power. Absence of monuments may signal that power was embodied in several people, not one ruler. Or that political power was not advertised . Are clear antecendents to lowland classic tradition (very similar) Information about kings, warfare, sacrifice, succession of political offices. Growth of numerous capitals of autonomous (independent) polities (political entities chiefdoms or states)
