Early Preclassic Period Begins
The Early Preclassic period marks the beginning of the Mayan civilization, with initial settlements and the development of agriculture in the region.
2000 BCE
1000 BCE
Middle Preclassic Period
During the Middle Preclassic period, the Mayan people began to develop more complex societies, including the construction of ceremonial centers and the establishment of trade networks.
400 BCE
Late Preclassic Period
The Late Preclassic period saw significant advancements in Mayan culture, including the development of writing, the construction of large pyramids, and the rise of powerful city-states.
250 CE
Classic Period Begins
The Classic period is often considered the height of Mayan civilization, characterized by the construction of monumental architecture, extensive urbanization, and the flourishing of arts and sciences.
600 CE
Peak of Tikal
The city of Tikal reached its peak during this time, becoming one of the most powerful and influential Mayan city-states.
800 CE
Decline of Classic Period Cities
Many major Mayan cities, including Tikal, began to decline due to factors such as warfare, overpopulation, and environmental degradation.
900 CE
End of the Classic Period
The Classic period officially ended around this time, with many of the great Mayan cities abandoned and the civilization transitioning into the Postclassic period.
1000 CE
Rise of Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza emerged as a dominant city during the Postclassic period, becoming a major cultural and economic center for the Mayan people.
1200 CE
Decline of Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza began to decline in influence and power, eventually being abandoned by the Mayan people.
1441 CE
Fall of Mayapan
Mayapan, the last great Mayan city, fell due to internal strife and conflict, marking the end of the Postclassic period.
1517 CE
Spanish Contact
The first contact between the Mayan people and Spanish explorers occurred, leading to significant cultural and societal changes.
1542 CE
The Spanish conquest of the Yucatan Peninsula was completed, leading to the colonization and conversion of the Mayan people to Christianity.
1697 CE
Fall of the Last Mayan Kingdom
The last independent Mayan kingdom, Tayasal, fell to the Spanish, marking the end of Mayan political independence.
1847 CE
Caste War of Yucatán
The Mayan people rose in rebellion against Mexican authorities in the Caste War of Yucatán, fighting for their rights and territory.
1992 CE
Rigoberta Menchú Wins Nobel Prize
Rigoberta Menchú, a Mayan woman from Guatemala, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in advocating for indigenous rights.
2024 CE
Modern Mayan Cultural Revival
Efforts to revive and preserve Mayan culture continue, with initiatives to promote the Mayan language, traditions, and heritage among the descendants of the ancient civilization.
