Name: Maya to Aztec: Ancient Mesoamerica Revealed
Released: 2015-03-06T00:00:00.000Z
Cast: Edwin Barnhart

TV Show · Documentary

Uncover the fascinating rise and fall of the Maya and Aztec civilizations-spectacular empires with complex cultures that ruled vast stretches of pre-Columbian America. Led by the Director of the Maya Exploration Center, you'll witness the enthralling history of these sophisticated societies as you explore their religions, governments, social organizations, and more.

2015 · 31m

Starring Edwin Barnhart

EPISODE 1

The Maya, Aztecs, and Mesoamerica

Survey the geography, cultures, and time span you will cover. Dr. Barnhart discusses the organization of the study and key concepts. Then he takes you on a whirlwind tour of important places, civilizations, and events in Mesoamerica.

31m
EPISODE 2

Olmec Civilization Emerges

Begin with the Olmecs at the dawn of Mesoamerican civilization. Flourishing from about 1700 BC to 300 BC, the Olmecs represent one of only six cradles of early civilization in world history. Hear how they were discovered, and investigate three sites where they lived.

31m
EPISODE 3

Olmec Art as the Mother Culture

Delve into Olmec art, searching for clues to who the Olmec were and what preoccupied these builders of Mesoamerica's first great civilization. Explore the mysteries of giant sculpted heads, jaguar carvings, and full-bearded figures depicting men who some think were foreigners from afar.

27m
EPISODE 4

Olmec Contemporaries

Investigate other cultures that thrived in Mesoamerica at the time of the Olmecs, such as the Zapotecs in the Valley of Oaxaca. Probe intriguing archeological evidence, including artifacts similar to those from Olmec culture, which raise the question of who influenced whom.

32m
EPISODE 5

Mesoamerican Plants, Cuisine, and Medicine

Learn about the botany of Mesoamerica and how it benefited not just the people of the region but eventually the entire world. From corn and chocolate to vanilla, chili peppers, rubber trees, and other products, the native vegetation has had a profound impact on global diet and culture.

33m
EPISODE 6

Early Highland Maya - Izapa to Kaminaljuyu

Trace the origin of Maya civilization to a dramatic change in the nature of public monuments. Dr. Barnhart takes you to early Maya highland cities such as Izapa, with its amazing religious carvings, and Kaminaljuyu, which heralded the dawn of the Classic Maya period.

30m

Edwin Barnhart

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Season 1

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