The History of the Maya Civilization The Maya civilization was one of the most advanced and influential cultures of Mesoamerica, flourishing for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. Known for their impressive achievements in architecture, mathematics, astronomy, and writing, the Maya left behind a rich legacy that continues to captivate historians and archaeologists. Origins and Early Development The Maya civilization emerged in present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador around 2000 BCE. The early Maya were primarily agriculturalists, cultivating crops such as maize, beans,