Pre-Columbian America was home to numerous advanced civilizations known for their rich cultures and contributions to history.

Mesoamerican Civilizations

• Olmec: One of the earliest civilizations (1500-400 B.C.), known for colossal stone heads and influence on later cultures.
• Zapotec: Located in Oaxaca, famous for Monte Albán and early writing systems.
• Mixtec: Known for their artistry, particularly in metalwork and codices.
• Maya: Thrived from 250-900 A.D.; renowned for their calendar, mathematics, pyramid constructions, and hieroglyphics.
• Teotihuacan: Major city-state with the Pyramid of the Sun, advanced urban planning.

North American Civilizations

• Mississippian Culture: Flourished from 800-1600 A.D., known for large earth mounds (Cahokia).
• Puebloans: Inhabited the Southwestern U.S., famous for cliff dwellings and kivas.
• Great Basin Tribes: Nomadic tribes adept in foraging and hunting in arid environments.
• Chesapeake Tribes: Known for agriculture, fishing, and trade networks.

Andean Civilizations

• Chavin: Early civilization (900-200 B.C.) known for religious innovations and arts.
• Moche: Known for intricate pottery and irrigation systems (100-700 A.D.).
• Inca: The largest empire in pre-Columbian America (1438-1533 A.D.), famous for extensive road systems and architectural feats.
• Tiwanaku: Notable for its advanced agriculture and stonework (500-1000 A.D.).

Charts and Diagrams

Mind Map

Pre-Columbian Civilizations → Mesoamerican → Olmec, Maya, Teotihuacan; North American → Mississippian, Puebloans; Andean → Inca, Moche.

Statistical Overview