| A | B |
|---|
| civilization | a culture that has developed complex systems of government, education, and religion |
| surplus | an amount greater than what is needed |
| specialize | to spend most of one's time doing one kind of job |
| Tikal | located in present day Guatemala; one of the oldest Mayan cities |
| archaeologists | a scientist who looks for and studies evidence from long ago |
| empire | a large area of different groups of people controlled by one ruler or government |
| Tenochtitlan | Located in present day Mexico; was formed by the Aztecs around 1325 |
| tribute | a payment in the form of valuable goods |
| slavery | the practice of owning people and forcing them to work |
| B. C. | Before Christ |
| A.D. | Anno Domini; after the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ |
| century | 100 years |
| decade | 10 years |
| benefit of having food surplus | People no longer need to hunt and can now specialize |
| activities pursued after food surplus | weaving, building, and making pottery |
| demise(end) of Mayans | food shortages and war |
