History The Mayan Civilization Questions Medium
The Mayan civilization had a complex social hierarchy with distinct class distinctions. At the top of the social pyramid were the ruling elite, consisting of the king, nobles, and high-ranking priests. They held the most power and wealth in Mayan society.
Below the ruling elite were the nobles, who served as administrators, military leaders, and governors of various regions. They enjoyed privileges and held important positions within the government and military.
The middle class was composed of skilled artisans, merchants, and traders. They played a crucial role in the economy and were highly respected for their craftsmanship and commercial activities. This class had more wealth and influence compared to the commoners.
The commoners formed the majority of the Mayan population and were engaged in various occupations such as farming, fishing, and labor. They lived in small villages and were responsible for producing food and resources for the society. While they had fewer privileges and resources compared to the upper classes, they still had certain rights and could own land.
At the bottom of the social hierarchy were the slaves, who were usually prisoners of war or individuals who had fallen into debt. Slavery was not hereditary, and slaves could sometimes gain their freedom through various means.
It is important to note that the Mayan social hierarchy was not fixed, and individuals could move up or down the social ladder based on their achievements, marriage alliances, or political connections. Additionally, the Mayan society was organized into city-states, each with its own ruler and social structure, leading to some variations in the social hierarchy across different regions.