Who were the Mayans and when and where did they live? - Teacher notes

The Mayans were a Mesoamerican civilization known for their profound cultural developments in areas such as mathematics, astronomy, art, and architecture. Renowned for their elaborate and highly decorated ceremonial architecture, including temple-pyramids, palaces and observatories, they were also skilled in creating intricate systems of writing and calendar-making. The Mayan civilization primarily lived in the region that is now southeastern Mexico, all of Guatemala and Belize, and the western portions of Honduras and El Salvador.

This ancient civilization flourished in the pre-Columbian period, with their society developing in the region as early as 2000 BC. The Classic period of Mayan civilization occurred between approximately 250 AD and 900 AD, which is considered the peak of their culture, showcasing their greatest achievements. During this time, they established powerful city-states and created a complex social and political order. When teaching about the Mayans, students can explore the connections between this civilization and other ancient societies they have studied, such as the Ancient Greeks or Egyptians. By placing the Mayans on a timeline in relation to British history, pupils gain a broader perspective of world chronology and the global significance of the Mayan era.