Ancient history

Did the Mayan people raise crops?

Yes, the Mayan people raised crops as part of their agricultural system. They practiced a form of agriculture called slash-and-burn agriculture, which involved clearing areas of forest and burning the vegetation to create fertile soil. The Mayans grew a variety of crops, including maize (corn), beans, squash, amaranth, and cacao. Maize was the most important crop and was used to make various foods, such as tortillas, tamales, and pozole. Beans and squash were also important sources of nutrition, while amaranth was a type of grain that was used to make flour and porridge. Cacao was used to make chocolate, which was consumed as a luxury drink and was also used for ceremonial purposes.