The Maya are probably the best known of the classical civilizations of Mesoamerica. Originating in the Yucatan around 2600 B.C., they rose to prominence around A.D. 250. Mesoamerica spans five countries: Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. They inherited a lot of their ideas from the Olmec. The Maya developed astronomy, calendrical systems, and hieroglyphic writing. The Maya were also known for their decorated architecture, which included temples and palaces. They were also skilled …showed first 75 words of 358 total…

…showed last 75 words of 358 total…been subjected to intense political upheaval in recent decades, with significant loss of life. The maya also face problems of their own creation. Particularly in the forest areas where the timber is being cut down to make room for crops. The Maya have faced formidable challenges, some of which continue today, but the traits that held the maya together, their devotion to their community and belief system, will help them survive into the next millennium.