Zapotec Civilizations

1. Zapotec Civilizations Standard 2.4 E.Q. What is the main aspects of the Zapotec civilizations?

2. Zapotec Civilization Arises • Zapotec: Developing an advanced society to the southwest in Mexican state of Oaxaca. • Had characteristics, The Zapotec built a unique civilizations.

3. People of the Oaxaca Valley • Had a rugged region mountains and valleys in southern Mexico. • Center of the state, three valleys meet to form a large open area known as the Oaxaca Valley. • The Valley had fertile soil, a mild climate, and enough rainfall to support agriculture.

4. People of the Oaxaca Valley • For centuries, the Zapotec lived in scattered village throughout the valley. • Built temples and began to work on monumental sculptures. • Developed early forms of writing and a calendar system.

5. Zapotec Flourish at Monte Alban • Zapotec civilization took a major leap forward. • Monte Alban was the first real urban center in the Americas. • By 200 B.C. Monte Alban was home to around 15,000 people. • Towering pyramids, temples, and palaces, all made out of stone. • Surrounded this plaza. • Decline by loss of trade or other economic difficulties.

6. Olmec Leave their Mark • Olmec contributed much to later Mesoamerica civilizations including the Maya. • Jaguar art style would be seen in pottery and sculpture of later people. • Had some signs of written language, by carving out stone symbols that may have influenced later glyph writing.

7. Zapotec Contribution • Included hieroglyphic writing system and a calendar system based on the movement of the sun. • Monte Alban combined ceremonial grandeur with residential living space.