LAC - Peace Before Intrusion Lesson

Peace Before Intrusion

Latin American Beginnings

The early years of Latin America are often called the Pre-Columbian years—the years where the indigenous tribes, the Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas among others, thrived and before Columbus discovered the Americas. The Mayans settled in present-day southern Mexico, Guatemala, northern Belize and western Honduras, the Aztecs settled in present-day southern Mexico, and the Incas settled in areas of present-day Peru, Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, and Bolivia. The Golden Age of the Mayans began in the year 250.

Studying Latin American literature without understanding the beginnings of the indigenous tribes remains a disservice to completely understanding national identity and culture.

Latin American Myths

Latin American literature originates from the oral tradition, and these include the myths and folk tales of the Ancient Civilizations, such as the Mayans, Aztecs, and Incas. In these myths, the beliefs of how the natural world originated comes to life and show what the civilizations view as important. Remember that there were many Ancient Civilizations in Latin America aside from the Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas. One manuscript that exists, called The Popol Vuh, Links to an external site. contains a wealth of information regarding the Kiché people of Mexico. The Popol Vuh provides information about their creation beliefs and myths that reveal what they value in terms of character traits.

Practice

Now that you have read the Popol Vuh, you will have a chance to practice your knowledge of Mayan traditions and beliefs. Look through the various beliefs below, and click on the bubbles that reveal truths about the Mayan traditions and beliefs.