-
300
300 B.C
The Maya adopt the idea of a hierarchical society ruled by nobles and kings. -
400
400 B.C
The earliest known solar calendars carved in stone are in use among the Maya, although the solar calendar may have been known and used by the Maya before this date. -
400
400 A.D.
The Maya highlands fall under the domination of Teotihuacan, and the disintegration of Maya culture and language begins in some parts of the highlands. -
500
500 A.D
The Maya city of Tikal becomes the first great Maya city, as citizens from Teotihuacan make their way to Tikal, introducing new ideas involving weaponry, captives, ritual practices and human sacrifice. -
Jun 12, 600
600 A.D
An unknown event destroys the civilization at Teotihuacan, along with the empire it supported. Tikal becomes the largest city-state in Mesoamerica , with as many as 500,000 inhabitants within the city and its hinterland. -
Apr 15, 700
700 B.C
Writing is developed in Mesoamerica. -
Feb 25, 751
751 A.D
Long-standing Maya alliances begin to break down. Trade between Maya city-states declines, and inter-state conflict increases. -
50 B.C
The Maya city of Cerros is built, with a complex of temples and ball courts. It is abandoned (for reasons unknown) a hundred years later and its people return to fishing and farming. -
100 B.C
The city of Teotihuacan is founded and for centuries is the cultural, religious and trading centre of Mesoamerica. -
100 A.D
The decline of the Olmecs. -
2000 B.C.
The rise of the Olmec civilization, from which many aspects of Maya culture are derived. Village farming becomes established throughout Maya regions. -
900 A.D
The Classic Period of Maya history ends, with the collapse of the southern lowland cities. Maya cities in the northern Yucatán continue to thrive. -
899 A.C
Tikal is abandoned. -
869 A.D
Construction ceases in Tikal, marking the beginning of the city's decline. -
683 A.D.
The Emperor Pacal dies at the age of 80 and is buried in the Temple of the Inscriptions at Palenque. -
2600 B.C.
Maya civilization begins. -
3113 B.C.
The creation of the world takes place, according to the Maya Long Count calendar.
