| Keyword |
Description |
| Symbol |
A sign, picture, or mark that stands for an idea, group, or thing |
| Pacts |
A promise or agreement between people or cities to help each other |
| Battle |
A big fight between groups or armies, often to win land or power |
Long ago, many Maya cities wanted to be the most important and powerful. Tikal, in today’s Guatemala, was very strong at first and had many warriors and rich trade routes. But a new group called the Kanu’l, also known as the Snake Kings, grew powerful in a city named Dzibanché in Mexico. They fought battles, made friends with other cities, and used a snake symbol to show who they were. Later, they moved to a bigger city called Calakmul, which was in a perfect place to control roads, rivers, and trade.
From Calakmul, the Snake Kings watched other cities and tried to stay in charge. They made pacts with rulers, sent their daughters to marry other leaders, and brought young princes to live and learn in their city so they would be loyal. For a while, it seemed like the Snake Kings would always win. But Tikal got stronger again, and in a great battle around the year 695, Tikal defeated Calakmul. After that, Calakmul lost many friends, its power faded, and the Snake Kings slowly disappeared from history.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Warriors |
Guerreros |
| Battle |
Batalla |
| Symbol |
Símbolo |
Time to discuss
- Why do you think Tikal and Calakmul wanted to be the strongest city?
- Is making pacts and promises a good way to avoid battles?
- Do you think it is fair to send young princes to another city to learn?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Imagine you are a child living in Calakmul. What do you see and do in one day?
- Write a diary entry from someone who watches the big battle between Tikal and Calakmul.
