Assessment Questions 12.1

1. Who was Yax Pahsaj Chan Yopat, and what was his significance?

Yax Pahsaj Chan Yopat was the 16th and final king of Copán, and his significance lies in his efforts to establish legitimacy through monumental constructions and depictions on Altar Q.

2. What was depicted in the complex painting in the Pyramid of the Paintings at San Bartolo?

The painting depicted the Maya creation story, including the emergence of creator gods, the world on the back of a turtle, and scenes of worship, sacrifice, and maize beer consumption.

3. How did the Maya organize their urban centers, and what was found in Tikal indicating foreign influence?

Maya urban centers had three tiers: pyramids and palaces in the center, noble neighborhoods, and farmer compounds. Tikal had a neighborhood with Teotihuacan-style architecture, suggesting foreign connections.