The accomplishments of Mesoamerican people were extremely varied and abundant. Many of these civilizations were extremely advanced, and their accomplishments are evidence of the importance of these groups to world history.
For example, the Olmec built the first known pyramids in America. They also invented the Long Count calendar and produced vulcanized rubber. The Inca developed complex hydraulic systems, as well as extensive road systems in very difficult terrain. The Mayans were skilled astronomers and mathematicians. The Aztecs developed artificial islands to be employed as land for farming. They also built double aqueducts. Finally, they provided compulsory education to all children and were able to perform surgeries.
The ancient Maya, a diverse group of indigenous people who lived in parts of present-day Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, had one of the most sophisticated and complex civilizations in the Western Hemisphere. Between about 300 and 900 A.D., the Maya were responsible for a number of remarkable scientific achievements–in astronomy, agriculture, engineering and communications.
