The everyday lives, beliefs and social routines of the ancient people of Mexico and Central America are revealed in this fascinating history of day-to-day life, society and culture in the Aztec and Mayan civilisations. This historical survey begins with a look at the natural world and its impact on ancient culture, then examines the spread of human settlement across Middle America. The book traces the gradual growth of cities and commerce from earliest times, and the flowering of the great civilizations of the Aztec, Maya, Olmec, Huastec, Zapotec and Toltec. It describes the vibrant trade in precious metals, tools and goods that fuelled much of this expansion, and the network of tribute that flowed from the provinces into Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec empire. The book illustrates how people earned their living from the land and sea, working as fishermen, hunters and farmers; and how village communities were often self-sufficient, growing or making their own food, pots, clothing, basketwork and tools. It describes the working lives of craft workers, warriors, labourers and priests, as well as the home lives of families. Fascinating material on the everyday world covers such popular pursuits as gambling, sports, music and dance. The pattern of daily life and work was broken up by festivals, in which the continent's many people celebrated the sacred patterns they found in their universe. Throughout Mesoamerica, huge centres accommodated large numbers of spectators who gathered to witness the drama of sacred theatre and ritual sacrifice, the celebration of the many gods through dance and the famous ballgame. The mystery of these lost and often unrecorded civilizations continues to fascinate and enthrall. It is revealed here in 300 superb colour photographs, paintings, artefacts, maps and architectural drawings that cover 20,000 years of these amazing civilisations. With an expert, accessible text from a leading authority, and an outstanding visual approach providing an astonishing record that celebrates and explains the mystery and complexity of this fascinating period, this is the perfect introduction to this subject for amateur historians and anthropologists; students; school libraries; school projects and anyone who loves to discover the extraordinary lives and people that form our rich cultural heritage.