War

War was a part of Maya life too, and military leadership a responsibility of the king and court. Maya cities fought to obtain valuable resources and to win control over small, weaker neighbors.

WARRIORS WERE ARMED WITH FLINT-TIPPED WEAPONS

and protected by leather vests and padding. They carried shields and wore helmets decorated with jaguars and other fierce creatures to share these animals’ power. Battle was a noisy affair, accompanied by drums and loud horns.

CAPTIVES WERE MARCHED TO THE VICTORIOUS CITY

and forced to kneel before the king and his officers. They were stripped of their finery and tied with ropes. Torn cloth replaced their large jade earrings. Some prisoners were forced to play a deadly ritual ball game they had no hope of winning—or surviving.

Yet, the Maya pictured captives with dignity and carefully recorded their names. Capture of a prince of king was greatly prized. This prisoner was a king of Palenque and son of Pakal. He was captured by nearby Tonina. His fate is unclear but recent evidence suggests he was returned to Palenque. May he as ransomed or made a subject king. Unlike most captives, he has kept most of his jewelry.