CHAPTER 15
Empires in the Americas
IN THIS CHAPTER
Summary: Before the voyages of Columbus and the conquests of the Spanish, the civilizations and
societies of the Americas developed in isolation from the remainder of the world. Within the Western
Hemisphere, many of the peoples of the Americas engaged in long-distance as well as regional trade.
When the Europeans arrived in the Americas, they encountered not only societies with their own rich
traditions but also mighty empires that dazzled their conquerors.
Key Terms
Anasazi
ayllus
calpulli
Chimor
chinampas
Inca
Mexica
Mississippians
mita
Moundbuilders
parallel descent
Quechua
quipus *
Toltecs