Final answer:
The Maya were termed the "Greeks of the New World" for their sophisticated calendar, advanced mathematical system, and developed writing, akin to the Greeks' contributions to the ancient world. The Mayan calendar, based on the Venus cycle and containing the concept of zero, exemplifies their intellectual achievements. Trade, architecture, and their written records further solidified their status as a distinguished civilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mayans have been called the "Greeks of the New World" due to their advanced understanding of astronomy, mathematics, and a complex written language, similar to the achievements of the ancient Greeks in the Old World. A specific example of their intellectual prowess is the Mayan calendar, which was developed based on the planet Venus and included the concept of zero, a mathematical breakthrough not known in Europe at the time. This calendar was not just a scheduling tool, but a sophisticated system for astronomical observations and marking religious ceremonies, as informed by their deep knowledge of the cosmos.
Additionally, the Maya had a flourishing trade network, importing luxury goods such as gold and turquoise, and selling everyday items like salt across Mayan territory. Remarkably, their written script, a combination of pictographs and alphabetic letters, was not just an artistic expression but provided detailed accounts of history, rituals, and genealogies, similar to Greek historical texts.
The Mayans' significant mathematical contributions included a numerical system that allowed them to record large numbers, facilitating trade and the management of resources. Their architectural achievements, exemplified in the awe-inspiring city-states dotted with temples and astronomical observatories, mirrored the Greek's architectural feats. Sadly, much of the Mayan writings were destroyed during the Spanish conquest, but what remains has provided valuable insights into this highly developed civilization.