Zapotec Civilization and Culture

The video explores the Zapotec civilization, which thrived in Oaxaca, Mexico, for over a millennium. It covers the origins, development, and expansion of the Zapotecs, highlighting key sites like Monte Albán and Mitla. The video delves into their social structure, religious beliefs, and cultural achievements, including their unique art and writing system. Despite the Spanish conquest, Zapotec culture and language persist today, influencing modern society.

Where did the Zapotec civilization thrive?

• Central Mexico

• Northern Mexico

• Oaxaca highlands

• Yucatan Peninsula

During which period did the Zapotecs give up their semi-nomadic ways?

• Late Formative Period

• Early Formative Period

• Classic Period

• Post-Classic Period

Which site became the most prominent during the spread of Zapotec culture?

• San Jose Abajo

• Monte Alban

• Teotihuacan

• Tenochtitlan

What was Monte Alban known for?

• Its large population

• All of the above

• Its pyramid platforms

• Its defensive walls

What likely caused the decline of Monte Alban around 900 CE?

• Rise of other cities

• Spanish conquest

• Internal conflicts

• Natural disasters

What does the Nahuatl word 'machlin' mean?

• Place of the sun

• Place of the gods

• Place of the dead

• Place of the living

What was a key feature of Zapotec engineering?

• Road construction

• Metalwork

• Irrigation canals

• Stone carvings

Who were allowed to wear feather garments and jade earplugs in Zapotec society?

• Priests

• Merchants

• Nobles

• Commoners

What was the nature of Zapotec religion?

• Monotheistic

• Animistic

• Polytheistic

• Atheistic

What happened to Zapotec culture after the Spanish conquest?

• It disappeared completely

• It continued to live on

• It was replaced by Aztec culture

• It merged with Mayan culture