American Civilizations

     Today, the Valley of Mexico still helps current inhabitants of the surrounding lands live because it contains fertile soil and many natural resources.  It also provides its inhabitants with a source of water because many shallow lakes are located in the area.  Also, Aztecs  live in Mexico City today.  They have preserved the ancient Aztec religion, but also do practice Roman Catholicism.

      Despite the Aztec religion being preserved, the Mayan culture was also kept in Mexico.  For example, Chichen Itza, a Mayan city, is still well-known today, and is primarily known for its palaces, temples, and pyramids.  Chichen Itza, along with Palenque, Uxmal, and Colban are major tourism sites in modern-day Mexico.  Tourism brings money to Mexico.   Tikal is another tourist city, and is often named one of the greatest ancient sites today.  Also, the Mayan ball game is still played today, and is a very important game as a source of entertainment for the Mayans.  Many people come to watch Mayan ball games all year.

       Not much is preserved from the Toltecs today.  However, Toltec warrior columns (shown at right) are prominent in Mexico.  Also, totem poles from the Toltec times also have been preserved since ancient times.