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What kinds of information are recorded in Mayan writing? What kinds of monumental architecture mark the central precincts of Mayan cities, and how were they used? Would it have been possible for a female to rule a Mayan city? What factors seem responsible for the "collapse" of the Classic Maya? Did any parts of Mayan civilization survive this "collapse"?

User Darshita
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Final answer:

Mayan writing recorded political histories, rituals, battles, and genealogies. The monumental architecture in Mayan cities included grand pyramids and buildings used for dramatic rituals. Female rule was possible in Mayan cities, and the collapse of the Classic Maya was caused by various factors but did not erase Mayan civilization entirely.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mayan Writing: The Mayans recorded a variety of information in their writing system, including political histories, descriptions of rituals, records of battles, and genealogies. They used complex characters that were phonetically based and more developed than other Mesoamerican writing systems, allowing them to create stone monuments and codices.

Monumental Architecture: Mayan cities had centrally located precincts with grand pyramids, administrative buildings, and plazas. These buildings were highly sculptured and painted, and they were used for dramatic rituals. They glorified the city's rulers with sculpted portraits.

Female Rule: It would have been possible for a female to rule a Mayan city. While male rulers were more common, there are examples of powerful Mayan queens who held political and religious authority.

Collapse of the Classic Maya: The collapse of the Classic Maya is attributed to multiple factors, including environmental degradation, warfare, social unrest, and political instability. However, it is important to note that Mayan civilization did not completely disappear. Parts of Mayan civilization survived the collapse, and today there are still millions of Mayan people who speak the Mayan language and maintain their cultural heritage.

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