Animal Skull facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Animal Skull |
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| Ajaw of Tikal 22nd in the line |
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Animal Skull's glyph.
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| Reign | after 562-c.593 |
| Predecessor | Wak Chan K'awiil |
| Successor | 23rd Ruler |
| Born | before 562 |
| Died | c.593 |
| Burial | Temple 32 (Burial 195) |
| Father | Fire Cross |
| Mother | Lady Hand Sky of Bahlam |
| Religion | Maya religion |
Animal Skull, also known as Lizard Head or Ete II, was an important ruler, called an ajaw, of the ancient Maya city of Tikal. He was born before 562 and ruled Tikal from after 562 until around 593. His parents were Fire Cross and Lady Hand Sky of Bahlam. Animal Skull was the 22nd ruler in Tikal's history.
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Who Was Animal Skull?
Animal Skull was a significant leader of the Maya city of Tikal. An ajaw was like a king or a lord in the Maya world. These rulers held great power and were seen as very important. They led their people in daily life and in religious ceremonies.
Life in Ancient Tikal
Tikal was one of the largest and most powerful cities of the Maya civilization. It was located in what is now Guatemala. During Animal Skull's time, Tikal was a busy place with grand temples and palaces. People lived in homes around the city center.
What Was Tikal Like?
Tikal was a major center for trade, art, and learning. The Maya people built amazing pyramids and studied the stars. They also developed a complex writing system. Life in Tikal was well-organized, with different groups of people doing various jobs.
Becoming a Ruler
Animal Skull became the ajaw of Tikal after 562. He followed a ruler named Wak Chan K'awiil. Being a ruler in the Maya world often meant you inherited the position from your family. Animal Skull's parents were Fire Cross and Lady Hand Sky of Bahlam, showing his royal connections.
The Role of an Ajaw
An ajaw was not just a political leader. They were also seen as a link between the people and the gods. Rulers performed important rituals and ceremonies. They made decisions about the city's future and its relationships with other Maya cities.
The End of His Reign
Animal Skull ruled Tikal for over 30 years, until about 593. After his death, he was buried in Temple 32, in a place known as Burial 195. This shows how important he was to the city. A new ruler, known only as the 23rd Ruler, took his place.
