📜Mesoamerica birthed writing more than 500 years ago.
🗿Olmec sites reveal early examples of script, potentially predating other writing in the Americas.
📖Maya civilization developed a sophisticated writing system, with older glyphs found in stucco or stone.
🖋️Zapotec writing dates back over 2500 years, discovered in a stone near Monte Albán.
🕊️Other Mesoamerican cultures, such as the Mixtec and Teotihuacanos, also had writing systems.
When did Mesoamerica start using writing?
—Mesoamerica started using writing more than 500 years ago, with the Olmec civilization potentially having the oldest script.
What were some important ancient writing systems in the Americas?
—The Maya civilization developed a sophisticated writing system, and the Zapotec writing, dating back over 2500 years, is one of the oldest identified.
Were there other Mesoamerican cultures with writing systems?
—Yes, other Mesoamerican cultures like the Mixtec and Teotihuacanos also had their own writing systems.
What are some examples of surviving ancient books or codices from the Americas?
—Libraries across Europe hold Aztec codices, and four legible Maya books have survived. Mixtec books have been found as well.
Are there still undeciphered writing systems in the Americas?
—Yes, there are still undeciphered writing systems, such as the Olmec script and some ancient Mixtec glyphs.
00:00The video explores the history of ancient writing in the Americas.
02:04Mesoamerica became known for its rich tradition of writing, with the Olmec, Maya, Zapotec, and other cultures having their own writing systems.
03:19The decipherment of Nāhua glyphs has allowed us to understand the Mesoamerican writing systems better.
06:00New discoveries are constantly pushing back the dates of the oldest writing in the Americas.
08:17The Cascajal block with Olmec glyphs has opened up new possibilities for understanding ancient writing.
