World History up to 1500: The Americas in Ancient Times Q&A

Question: What were the societal consequences of abundant and available resources in the Pacific Northwest for the hunter-gatherers who lived there?
Answer: The abundance of resources along the Pacific Northwest coast meant the groups that settled there could accumulate wealth far more easily than many other hunter-gatherer societies. This led to complex societies in which wealth and social status were connected.

Question: What evidence supports the conclusion that Teotihuacán wielded great influence in the larger Mesoamerican world during its height?
Answer: Sculptures at Monte Albán show Teotihuacáno diplomats meeting with the Zapotec elite. The Teotihuacános may also have orchestrated a coup in the Maya city-state of Tikal.

Question: What was the significance of human sacrifice for the Aztec?
Answer: Human sacrifice rituals were closely tied to Aztec origin stories and the people’s understanding of their role in the universe. Sacrifice was one way human beings could serve and feed the gods, ensuring they continued to favor the Aztecs. It was thus an important means of preserving the world and also keeping conquered territories in line (because war captives were often sacrificed).