User:KidFriendlySources/sandbox/Mayan Civilization

Mayans developed a hierarchical government controlled & ruled by kings and priests. They lived in independent city-states consisting of rural communities and large urban ceremonial centers.

The Mayans developed a hierarchical government ruled by kings and priests. They lived in independent city-states consisting of rural communities and large urban ceremonial centers. There were no standing armies, but warfare played an important role in religion, power and prestige.

Maya society was rigidly divided between nobles, commoners, serfs, and slaves. Nobles served as rulers, government officials, tribute collectors, military leaders, high priests, local administrators, cacao plantation managers, and trade expedition leaders.