Final answer:
The Egyptians were an ancient civilization known for their stelae, akin to the Mayan civilization, using them to record important events and laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ancient civilization known for its stelae, similar to those of the Mayan civilization, was the Egyptians. Like the Mayans, Egyptians used stelae as monumental stone slabs, often inscribed with hieroglyphics, to commemorate events, decree laws, or mark graves. They serve as important historical records that provide insights into the life and beliefs of ancient cultures.