Final answer:
The Andes were inhabited by prehistoric hunters and gatherers who later became agricultural societies. The Chavín, Nazca, and Moche civilizations were ancient cultures that thrived in the Andes region with unique characteristics and contributions to Andean history and art.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Andes:
The Andes is a mountain range in South America that spans several countries, including Peru. The first people of the Andes were prehistoric hunters and gatherers who lived in the region thousands of years ago. They gradually transitioned to agricultural societies, cultivating crops like potatoes and maize.
Chavín Civilization:
The Chavín civilization was an ancient culture that flourished in the Andes region of Peru between 900 and 200 BCE. They were known for their distinctive art and architecture, including monumental stone sculptures and underground ceremonial complexes. The Chavín people also had a significant religious and spiritual influence on later Andean cultures.
Nazca Civilization:
The Nazca civilization, which developed around 100 BCE and flourished until 800 CE, was known for their impressive geoglyphs, large figures drawn on the desert floor. The Nazca people also practiced complex irrigation and developed advanced pottery techniques.
Moche Civilization:
The Moche, or Moche-Mochica, civilization inhabited the northern coast of Peru from about 100 to 700 CE. They were skilled farmers, fishermen, and artisans. The Moche people created elaborate pottery and metalwork, including gold and silver artifacts. They also built impressive adobe pyramids and had a hierarchical social structure.
Learn more about Andean civilizations