The Maya in History

The Maya began as farmers, but grew into one of the greatest civilizations in history.  Their discoveries and advancements greatly affected the world.  A variation of their calendar is still used today, zero is an important part of mathematics, and scientists built on their astronomical discoveries.  They also developed one of the first systems of writing.  Further, their architecture is regarded as some of the most impressive in the world.  In fact, the Mayan ruins are considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and Chichen Itza is considered one as well.  Their collapse is regarded as one of the biggest mysteries in history.  As a result of the Mayan civilization, people were able to expand their knowledge.  Knowledge in fields such as mathematics, science, and writing was expanded, due in part to the discoveries of the Maya.  Their architecture and culture only recently began to be appreciated because much of the great cities were buried in the rainforest.  But now, the full spectrum of the Mayan world can be appreciated.