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40,000 - 15,000 B.C.
Early humans cross from Asia to the Americas via the Bering land bridge, likely following large herds of animals during the last Ice Age. -
10,000 - 4,000 B.C.
During this period, hunter-gatherer societies begin to develop more advanced technologies like stone tools and pottery. Some permanent settlements are established in certain areas. -
3,500 - 1,500 B.C.
Corn, beans, and squash are domesticated in Mesoamerica. Early sedentary cultures emerge, with significant advancements in agriculture and social organization. -
2000 B.C. - A.D. 250 (Preclassic Period)
The Maya civilization begins to take shape in Mesoamerica, developing advanced agricultural techniques, architecture, and hieroglyphic writing. The construction of large cities such as El Mirador marks this period. -
16th Century
With the fall of the Aztec and Inca empires, most of the major pre-Hispanic civilizations in the Americas are subjugated by the Spanish, marking the end of indigenous rule and the beginning of the colonial period. -
A.D. 1532 - 1533
In South America, the Spanish, led by Francisco Pizarro, capture the Inca emperor Atahualpa and swiftly bring down the Inca Empire. -
A.D. 1519 - 1521
Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, arrive in Mesoamerica and, through alliances and warfare, bring about the fall of the Aztec Empire. -
1,500 - 400 B.C.
The Olmec, considered the “mother culture” of Mesoamerica, establish complex societies in present-day southern Mexico. They build monumental stone heads and develop early forms of writing and calendar systems. -
A.D. 1438 - 1533
In South America, the Inca Empire rises in the Andes, with its capital at Cusco. It becomes the largest empire in pre-Columbian America, known for its vast road network, agricultural terraces, and stone architecture, such as Machu Picchu. -
A.D. 1325 - 1521
The Mexica, later known as the Aztecs, found their capital, Tenochtitlan, in the Valley of Mexico. By the early 16th century, the Aztec Empire dominates much of central Mexico, excelling in trade, agriculture, and warfare. -
A.D. 900 - 1150
The Toltecs establish their capital at Tula in central Mexico. They are known for their military prowess and influence on later civilizations, particularly the Aztecs, who would adopt many of their cultural elements. -
A.D. 250 - 900
This period marks the peak of the Maya civilization, with the construction of major city-states such as Tikal, Palenque, and Copán. The Maya excel in mathematics, astronomy, and the creation of sophisticated calendars. -
A.D. 100 - 650
The city of Teotihuacan flourishes in central Mexico, becoming one of the largest cities in the ancient world. Its influence spreads throughout Mesoamerica, especially through its monumental pyramids and urban planning.