The Aztec sun god, to whom human sacrifices were often made.

The Incan sun god.

Internal conflicts and food shortages led to the collapse of the Mayan city-states.

Chinampas allowed for increased agricultural production, supporting a large population in Tenochtitlan.

The mita system provided a labor force for large-scale projects, strengthening the Inca Empire's infrastructure and control.

The Aztecs practiced human sacrifice to appease their gods and maintain cosmic balance.

The Inca's centralized government allowed for efficient resource management and control over a vast empire.

Vast land and smaller populations led to the development of societies in smaller, distinct regions.

The Aztec's militaristic society allowed them to expand their empire through conquest and tribute collection.

The Maya's city-state system fostered cooperation and trade but also led to internal conflicts.

The Inca developed the quipu to manage their vast empire's resources and population.

Earthen mounds demonstrated the Mississippian Culture's ability to organize large-scale projects and their complex social structure.

The development of societies in smaller, distinct areas due to vast land and smaller populations.

Large structures made of earth, used by Mississippian cultures for various purposes.

A system where social standing is passed down through the mother's line.

Independent cities that govern themselves, often cooperating with each other.

Floating gardens used by the Aztecs for agriculture in Lake Texcoco.

The ritual killing of humans, often to appease deities, as practiced by the Aztecs.

Mandatory public service labor required of all male citizens in the Inca Empire.

A system of knotted cords used for record-keeping and communication by the Inca.

The belief that natural objects, phenomena, and the universe itself possess souls.

The belief in or worship of more than one god.