The Ancient Kingdoms of Mexico (Penguin history)

by NigelDavies (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  1990

  $3.25

  This outstanding study spans four rich civilizations in ancient Mexico, from 1500 B.C. to the Spanish conquest soon after A.D.1500: The Olmecs, hunters and farmers who worshipped the man-jaguar and became the first great carvers in stone and jade.The culture of Teotihuacan, with its sumptuous palaces and gigantic Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon.The Toltec dynasty, whose temples, wreathed with carvings of predatory beasts, serpents and warriors, testify to a new militaristic phase in Mexican history.The Aztecs, fierce empire-builders whose gods demanded complex rituals and the blood of human sacrifice.Writing for students, travellers and non-specialists, Nigel Davies puts these fascinating cultures into historical context. Drawing on the latest research, he discusses their arts, beliefs and customs, and their changing economic and political conditions, to build up a vivid picture of life in the kingdoms of ancient Mexico.