mesoamerica
Definition
Proper noun A historical region and cultural area in the Americas, extending approximately from central Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and northern Costa Rica. It is defined by the shared cultural traits and complex societies that flourished there before European contact.
Usage
This term is used primarily in historical, archaeological, and anthropological contexts to refer to the pre-Columbian civilizations and their shared cultural sphere. It is a geographical and cultural designation, not a modern political one.
Examples
- Academic Context:
- Mesoamerica is one of the world's six cradles of civilization.
- The Olmec culture is often considered the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica.
- General Context:
- Maize was the staple crop throughout ancient Mesoamerica.
- Many languages spoken in Mesoamerica today belong to the Mayan family.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Area: The concept of Mesoamerica is based on a constellation of shared cultural characteristics, such as the cultivation of maize, a 260-day ritual calendar, ballgames, and specific architectural styles.
- The concept of Mesoamerica as a cultural area was defined by anthropologist Paul Kirchhoff.
Variants and Related Words
- Mesoamerican (adjective): Of or relating to Mesoamerica.
- Mesoamerican art is renowned for its complex symbolism.
- Mesoamericanist (noun): A scholar who specializes in the study of Mesoamerica.
Synonyms
- Middle America (This term is less specific and can also refer to the modern geographic region; "Mesoamerica" is the preferred scholarly term for the pre-Columbian cultural area.)
Related Terms (Not Synonyms)
- Pre-Columbian: Referring to the time period before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas.
- Olmec, Maya, Aztec, Teotihuacan, Zapotec: Specific civilizations and cultures within Mesoamerica.
Noun
-
Mexico and Central America
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