Question

How did the Maya, Aztecs, and Incas adapt to their environment to build their civilizations? Explain at least one major adaptation for each civilization.

Answer 1

• #1: They adapted to their surroundings by practicing terrace farming, which was crucial. Terrace farming occurs when steep slopes are cut and rope bridges are built to span the mountains.
• #2: Incas: The impressive aqueduct system of the Incan empire functioned to irrigate agricultural terraces and bring fresh drinking water into the cities. The stepped agricultural terraces created more space to grow crops than was available in the valleys.
• #3: Aztects: The Aztecs knew in order to settle down successfully that they would need many engineers and builders and traders. They adapted to their environment. They built canoes so they could hunt and fish.