Aztec And Mayan Differences



This article is about differences in Aztec and Mayan civilization.

Aztecs and Mayans are both ancient American civilizations that the conquering Spaniards encountered when they set foot on that continent. There were some important differences between the two. Firstly the Aztecs were huge believers of human sacrifice and were at it all the time.

Aztec and Mayan similarities

While there are similarities between the Aztecs and the Mayans, there are great differences. Both cultures believed in sacrifice, but the Aztecs believed in sacrificing humans and the Mayans believed in the sacrifice of blood.

Azec Mayan Beliefs

The Mayans were a far more advanced civilization and had a different approach to developing scientific processes. They studied the stars and used their knowledge of astronomy to develop a calendar, which ends on December 21, 2012.

Azec Mayan People

The Aztecs were warriors and held many events that demonstrated their strength and power. They were fierce people who conquered their enemies and were very proud of their victories in battle. The Mayans on the other hand were a peaceful, gentle people. The Mayan society was divided into states and each one had its own ruler. The Aztecs had a central government and one ruler who was viewed as a Supreme Being.

Azec Mayan People

Mayan vs Aztec calendar

What really set the Mayans apart was there very scientific temperament. They studied stars and in fact had come up with a very scientific calendar comparable to the modern one. They had an obsession with time and tried to measure it by studying astronomy and correlating it with their current events.

Aztecs vs Mayans War

On the other hand were a very warlike people who waged war against their neighboring tribes forcing them to pay tribute. The male warrior had the pride of place in the Aztec society. Among the Mayans who consisted of many city states, each with their own sovereign ruler, the ruler's prestige mattered the most. The Aztecs on the other hand were ruled by one supreme ruler.

Azec Mayan Art

The Mayan style of art was true to life, having representations of contemporary life in murals. Among the Aztecs were outstanding craftsmen and sculptors. Of the two the Mayans were a gentler and kinder, civilization.

Azec Mayan Art

The Aztecs on the other hand were a proud war like people who took pride in their martial tradition. Perhaps that is the reason that the fearsome Aztecs are no longer around. They lived by the sword and died by it. The Mayans on the other hand can still be found in the millions.

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