Incas vs. Mayas

Attribute	Incas	Mayas
Location	Andes Mountains	Mesoamerica (modern-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador)
Capital	Cusco	Tikal
Architecture	Stone buildings, terraces, and roads	Pyramids, temples, and palaces
Writing System	Quipu (knotted strings)	Hieroglyphics
Religion	Worshiped the sun god Inti	Polytheistic with gods like Kukulkan and Chaac

Religion and Beliefs

The Incas and Mayas both had complex religious beliefs that played a significant role in their societies. The Incas worshipped the sun god Inti, while the Mayas worshipped a variety of gods including the maize god and the rain god. Both civilizations built elaborate temples and pyramids to honor their deities. The Incas believed in the concept of reincarnation, while the Mayas believed in a cyclical view of time.

Social Structure

Both the Incas and Mayas had hierarchical social structures, but they were organized in different ways. The Inca Empire was a highly centralized state with a powerful emperor at the top of the social hierarchy. Below the emperor were nobles, priests, and commoners. The Mayan society, on the other hand, was organized into city-states ruled by kings. Each city-state had its own noble class, priests, and commoners.

Architecture and Engineering

Both the Incas and Mayas were known for their impressive architectural and engineering achievements. The Incas built massive stone structures without the use of mortar, such as the famous Machu Picchu. They also constructed an extensive network of roads and bridges throughout their empire. The Mayas, on the other hand, built elaborate stone temples and pyramids, often with intricate carvings and decorations. They were also skilled astronomers and mathematicians, creating accurate calendars and observatories.

Agriculture and Economy

Agriculture was a central part of both Inca and Maya societies. The Incas developed advanced agricultural techniques such as terracing and irrigation to grow crops in the Andes Mountains. They also built extensive storage facilities to store surplus food. The Mayas, on the other hand, practiced slash-and-burn agriculture in the dense rainforests of Mesoamerica. They grew crops such as maize, beans, and squash. Both civilizations had complex economies based on trade and tribute.

Art and Culture

The Incas and Mayas were both highly skilled artists and craftsmen. The Incas were known for their intricate textiles, pottery, and metalwork. They also created elaborate gold and silver jewelry. The Mayas, on the other hand, were known for their intricate stone carvings, murals, and hieroglyphic writing. They also developed a sophisticated system of mathematics and astronomy. Both civilizations placed a high value on art and culture.

Decline and Legacy

Both the Inca and Maya civilizations eventually declined and were conquered by European powers. The Inca Empire fell to the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, while the Mayan city-states were abandoned around the same time. Despite their decline, both civilizations left a lasting legacy. The Incas are remembered for their impressive stone architecture and engineering feats, while the Mayas are known for their advancements in art, mathematics, and astronomy.