Mayan Civilization History Quiz!
How well do you know about Mayan civilization? Do you believe you can pass this quiz? Concerning this quiz, you should comprehend how the Mayans modified the land for agriculture, how Mayan cities functioned, why the kings had a great influence on Mayan civilization, what achievements the Mayans were known for, and why did the Mayan empire decline. This quiz will help you learn more about the Mayan civilization. All the best! Hope you get a 100% score. Share it with other history lovers.
- 1.
How did Mayans modify the land for agriculture?
- A.
The Mayans built terracing on the sides of mountains and grew new forms of corn or maize.
- B.
The Mayans built irrigation systems and cleared forest land.
- C.
The Mayans killed surrounding people for their land.
- D.
The Mayans burned down forests to clear the land and built terracing on the sides of mountains.
Correct Answer
D. The Mayans burned down forests to clear the land and built terracing on the sides of mountains.Explanation
The Mayans modified the land for agriculture by burning down forests to clear the land and then building terracing on the sides of mountains. This allowed them to create flat areas for farming and prevent erosion on the steep slopes. By clearing the land and building terraces, the Mayans were able to cultivate crops such as corn or maize in these modified areas.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Mayans cities functioned as:
- A.
Republics
- B.
Empires
- C.
City States
- D.
Democratic Republics
Correct Answer
C. City StatesExplanation
Mayan cities functioned as city-states. City-states were independent political entities with their own government and ruling class. They were self-governing and had control over their own territory, including surrounding villages and agricultural lands. Each city-state had its own ruler, who governed the city and its surrounding areas. They had their own economic systems, religious practices, and social structures. The city-states often engaged in trade and warfare with each other, and alliances were formed between them for mutual benefit. This decentralized political structure allowed for diversity and autonomy among the Mayan cities.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which of the following is NOT a significant contribution of the Mayan civilization?
- A.
Developing a complex writing system
- B.
Creating accurate astronomical observations
- C.
Constructing monumental pyramids and temples
- D.
Inventing the wheel and the plow
Correct Answer
D. Inventing the wheel and the plowExplanation
The Maya civilization made remarkable advancements in various fields, including writing, astronomy, and architecture. However, they did not invent the wheel or the plow. These technologies were developed independently in other parts of the world. The Maya civilization thrived in Mesoamerica, and their achievements highlight their ingenuity and cultural sophistication.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The Mayan religion was:
- A.
Monotheistic
- B.
Polytheistic
- C.
Both of the above
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. PolytheisticExplanation
The Mayan religion was polytheistic, meaning they believed in multiple gods. The Mayans worshipped a wide range of deities, each associated with different aspects of life such as the sun, rain, agriculture, and warfare. They believed that these gods had the power to influence their daily lives and performed rituals and sacrifices to appease them. This belief in multiple gods was a central aspect of the Mayan religious system, making polytheism the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Mayans were known for their achievements in all of the following except:
- A.
Calendars
- B.
Astronomy
- C.
Math
- D.
Literature
Correct Answer
D. LiteratureExplanation
The Mayans were known for their achievements in calendars, astronomy, and math. They developed a highly advanced calendar system that accurately predicted celestial events. They also made significant contributions to the field of astronomy, studying the movements of celestial bodies and building observatories. Additionally, the Mayans had a sophisticated understanding of mathematics, including the concept of zero and a positional numbering system. However, they did not have a well-developed tradition of literature like other ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks or Egyptians.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The Mayan empire declined because of European invaders.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement that the Mayan empire declined because of European invaders is false. The decline of the Mayan empire was a complex process that involved a combination of factors such as environmental degradation, overpopulation, warfare, and internal conflicts. While European contact did have some impact on the Mayans, it was not the sole or primary cause of their decline. The decline of the Mayan empire began long before the arrival of Europeans and was mainly a result of internal issues within their society.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The Mayan civilization developed a sophisticated _______ system that included the concept of zero.
Correct Answer
Numeral, numeralExplanation
The Mayans were advanced mathematicians and astronomers. They developed a vigesimal (base-20) numeral system that allowed them to represent large numbers and perform complex calculations. Notably, they independently developed the concept of zero, a significant advancement in mathematics. Their numeral system played a crucial role in their calendrical systems and astronomical observations, demonstrating their intellectual and scientific achievements.Rate this question:
- 8.
Which of the following Mayan social classes had the most people who did the hardest work?
- A.
Farmers and Slaves
- B.
Priests
- C.
Nobles
- D.
Merchants and Artisans
Correct Answer
A. Farmers and SlavesExplanation
Farmers and Slaves had the most people who did the hardest work in Mayan society. Farmers were responsible for cultivating crops and providing food for the entire community, which required physical labor and extensive knowledge of agriculture. Slaves, on the other hand, were forced to perform various manual tasks, including construction, mining, and serving the elite. Both groups were essential for the functioning of Mayan society and contributed significantly to its economic prosperity.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What was the noble class of Mayan society?
- A.
Merchants and artisans
- B.
Priests and warriors
- C.
Priests and the King
- D.
Farmers and slaves
Correct Answer
B. Priests and warriorsExplanation
In Mayan society, the noble class consisted of priests and warriors. The priests held significant religious and spiritual authority, performing rituals and ceremonies, and interpreting the gods' will. They were responsible for maintaining the religious traditions and beliefs of the Mayan people. Warriors, on the other hand, were highly respected for their military skills and played a crucial role in protecting the Mayan city-states from external threats. Both the priests and warriors held positions of power and privilege within Mayan society.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which animal was important in the Mayan religion?
- A.
Jaguar
- B.
Monkey
- C.
Lion
- D.
Horse
Correct Answer
A. JaguarExplanation
The jaguar was important in the Mayan religion because it was seen as a powerful and sacred animal. The Mayans believed that the jaguar was a symbol of strength, courage, and protection. They associated the jaguar with their gods and believed that it had the ability to communicate with the spiritual realm. The jaguar was often depicted in Mayan art and was considered a guardian of the sacred temples and rituals. Its presence in the Mayan religion highlights the significance of nature and animals in their spiritual beliefs.Rate this question:
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Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Nov 19, 2024Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Nov 13, 2009Quiz Created by
Msodonnell
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