Essays on Mesoamerica

The 16th century exploits of Christopher Columbus and his men did not only bring about social, cultural and political clashes that created the United States, it also led to the process that resulted in the emergence of the state of Mexico. Mexico is an enigma of a country to the south of the United States border whose recent political, economic and social transformations have been overshadowed by its complex relations with the more prosperous United States. This country profile seeks to examine the history and current state of Mexico. It also explores and analyzes political culture, geography, demography, political ...

The artifact called the thin ‘orange ware’ ceramic a Mesoamerican cylindrical tin or vessel with trio sided slanting figures with one of its end either the rear or the hind side having the shape of a bird’s head. This artifact was created 1000 AD in the deserts north of Puebla in Mexico by a group of Popoloca men. It is made using clay of two kinds; black which is hardened from weathering and a sandy cream colored one. It was initially molded by a woman by creating and attaching an elaborate design which looks like a gods homage. On its outer side,series of ...

Abstract

This paper describes the Teotihuacan state-city thriving in the Basin of Mexico between 200 BC and 600 AD. A description of archeological findings at the site in Teotihuacan Valley offers an insight into political organization and everyday life of the powerful city. City features grid system and a large number of impressive structures. Its agriculture was highly reliant on systems of irrigation. A high demand for construction wood might have had a harming effect on local ecology and agriculture. The economy of Teotihuacan was based on market commerce including trading with areas as remote as Veracruz or Guatemala. Political power and ...