Politics Axis

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Jasaw Chan K'awiil I's Victory over Calakmul

695 CE

Historical illustration: Jasaw Chan K'awiil I's Victory over Calakmul
Historical illustration: Jasaw Chan K'awiil I's Victory over Calakmul

Tikal defeats King Yuknoom Yich'aak K'ahk' of Calakmul, ending Tikal's decline and erecting Temple I (Great Jaguar).

Historical Context

Tikal had suffered over a century of humiliation and forced vassalage in Calakmul's shadow. Young prince Jasaw Chan K'awiil I took power determined to restore Mutal's pride.

The Event

On August 5, 695 CE (9.13.3.7.18), Jasaw Chan K'awiil I led Tikal's army into battle and crushed Calakmul's forces. King Yuknoom Yich'aak K'ahk' was captured or routed, and the Snake effigy shield was seized.

Key Figures

Jasaw Chan K'awiil I (King of Tikal), Yuknoom Yich'aak K'ahk' ('Jaguar Paw', Fallen King of Calakmul).

Aftermath

Calakmul's hegemony was broken forever. Tikal underwent a spectacular rebirth, constructing its most famous soaring pyramids (Temple I - Great Jaguar and Temple II).

Legacy & Culture

The Great Jaguar Temple at Tikal, housing Jasaw Chan K'awiil I's tomb, serves as the iconic image of Maya architecture worldwide.

Historiography

The carved sapodilla wood lintel of Temple I, detailing the capture of Calakmul's sacred effigy, is one of the most detailed battle accounts in glyphic literature.

Sources and References

ARCHEOLOGY

Linteau 3 du Temple I (Grand Jaguar) & Stèle 16 de Tikal

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LITERATURE

Robert J. Sharer, The Ancient Maya

Reliability index : ★★★★★

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Ancient China cluster

Xia, Shang, Zhou, Qin, Han: writing, philosophy, unification and the Silk Road.

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