Mayan Society and Governance

The video delves into the Mayan social structure, highlighting the roles of kings, nobles, and commoners. It compares the rigid Mayan caste system with modern social classes, emphasizing the immobility within the Mayan hierarchy. The video also discusses the roles and responsibilities of different classes, including the power held by priests and rulers. Additionally, it touches on the prevalence of slavery and warfare in Mayan society.

What was the role of nobles in the Mayan government?

• To serve as religious leaders

• To work as farmers

• To choose officials for city management

• To rule the capital city

How does the U.S. social structure differ from the Mayan social structure?

• The U.S. has a rigid caste system

• The U.S. social classes are based on occupation

• The U.S. social classes are more flexible

• The U.S. requires marriage within the same class

In the Mayan caste system, what determined a man's occupation?

• His personal choice

• His father's occupation

• His social class

• His education level

Which group was part of the upper level in the Mayan caste system?

• Slaves

• Nobles

• Merchants

• Farmers

What was a common way for a new ruling family to take over a Mayan city?

• Through marriage

• By election

• Through trade

• By war

What was a key responsibility of Mayan rulers?

• To manage agriculture

• To command armies

• To build temples

• To trade with other cities

What was the role of priests in Mayan society?

• To lead armies

• To manage trade

• To conduct religious ceremonies

• To oversee farming

Who were considered the lowest class in the Mayan social structure?

• Merchants

• Priests

• Soldiers

• Farmers and slaves

What was a characteristic of the Mayan caste system?

• It was rigid and hereditary

• It was flexible and dynamic

• It was based on wealth

• It allowed for social mobility

What was a common feature of Mayan rulers during religious ceremonies?

• They wore simple clothing

• They wore head dresses taller than themselves

• They performed dances

• They carried weapons