The Reigning Dynasty of Uaxactun During the Early Classic: The rulers and the ruled

Abstract

AbstractFrom the Preclassic on, architectural complexes with defined functions were built in the Maya lowlands as a reflection of societal complexity and of the centralization of power in the hands of a sovereign with divine rights. Two of these types of complexes—acropoli and astronomical commemoration complexes—complement each other, as a model for a new generation of elites with ideas of grandeur and with the vision to realize ambitious projects. Thus, in Tikal and Uaxactun, the acropoli and the astronomical commemoration complexes (also called Group E) were built. These, together with other evidence for political, economic, and artistic progress, led the sites to become powerful centers that radiated prosperity and wealth.