The development of the Mayan culture began approximately 5,000 years ago, when it is estimated that the first language, known as Proto-Maya, was formed.
From that moment on, a chronology has been established that allows archaeological sites to be located in temporal units, in order to interpret the social and political processes that occurred until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century.
In this way, three major periods have been defined: Preclassic, Classic and Postclassic, each with subdivisions. The colonial period must also be considered as part of this development that has led to the present day.
He Archaic or Preceramic, is a long period that spans between the 7th and 2nd centuries BC, which can be defined as the time when the Mayan group itself was formed.
The populations are quite simple, with semi-nomadic characteristics, who took advantage of wild resources by collecting plants and hunting animals. It took several centuries for these societies to discover agriculture and use it as their main means of subsistence.
That is why it is estimated that corn, beans and pumpkins began to be cultivated around the year 3,500 BC. The tools are predominantly made of stone and perishable materials, such as baskets and tecomates or gourds.
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