What Ancient Civilization Lived in North America?

North America is known for its rich history and diverse cultures, but few people know about the ancient civilizations that once thrived on this land. While many may think of the Aztecs or Mayans when they imagine ancient civilizations, North America was also home to several advanced societies.

One such civilization that lived in North America was the Anasazi. They were a Native American people who lived in what is now known as the Four Corners region of the United States, where Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah meet. The Anasazi are believed to have lived in this area from around 200 BCE to 1300 CE.

The Anasazi were skilled farmers who grew corn, beans, and squash. They also hunted game and gathered wild plants for food. They built intricate irrigation systems to water their crops and created storage facilities to store their surplus food.

One of the most impressive aspects of Anasazi culture was their architecture. They built multi-story structures out of stone and adobe bricks that still stand today.

Some of these structures were as tall as five stories high! The most famous of these structures is Mesa Verde, which means “green table” in Spanish. It is a series of cliff dwellings that were built into the side of a cliff.

Another ancient civilization that lived in North America was the Cahokia. They were a Native American people who lived in what is now known as Illinois from around 600 CE to 1400 CE. At its peak, Cahokia was one of the largest cities in the world with a population between 10,000-20,000 people.

The Cahokians were skilled farmers who grew crops such as corn, beans, and squash. They also hunted deer and gathered wild plants for food. The Cahokians built impressive structures out of wood and earth such as temples and mounds.

One of the most impressive structures at Cahokia is Monk’s Mound, which is the largest earthen mound in North America. It stands at over 100 feet tall and covers more than 14 acres! The Cahokians also built a large plaza where they held ceremonies and played games.

In conclusion, while the ancient civilizations that lived in North America may not be as well-known as their counterparts in other parts of the world, they were just as advanced and impressive. The Anasazi and Cahokia were skilled farmers, architects, and builders who left behind a rich legacy that can still be seen today. If you ever have the opportunity to visit their ancient sites, take it – you won’t be disappointed!