Chak Tok Ichʼaak II facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chak Tok Ichʼaak II |
|
|---|---|
| Ajaw | |
| King of Tikal | |
| Reign | 26 September 485 - 24 July 508 |
| Predecessor | Kʼan Chitam |
| Successor | Lady of Tikal and Kaloomteʼ Bahlam |
| Born | Tikal |
| Died | 24 July 508 Tikal |
| Issue | Wak Chan Kʼawiil Lady of Tikal? |
| Father | Kʼan Chitam |
| Mother | Lady Tzutz Nik |
| Religion | Maya religion |
| Signature |  |
Chak Tok Ichʼaak II, also known as Jaguar Paw II or Jaguar Paw Skull, was an important ruler of the ancient Maya city of Tikal. He became the ajaw (which means "lord" or "king") of Tikal around the year 486. He ruled until his death on July 24, 508. Chak Tok Ichʼaak II was the son of a previous ruler named Kʼan Chitam and Lady Tzutz Nik. Several stone monuments, called stelae, are linked to his time as ruler.
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Who Was Chak Tok Ichʼaak II?
Chak Tok Ichʼaak II was a powerful leader in the ancient Maya world. He ruled the city of Tikal, which was one of the largest and most important Maya cities. Tikal is located in what is now modern-day Guatemala. As an ajaw, he was responsible for leading his people. He also managed the city's daily life and important events.
His Time as Ruler
Chak Tok Ichʼaak II began his rule around 486 CE. He was in charge for over 20 years, which was a long time for a ruler back then. During his reign, Tikal continued to be a major center of Maya culture and power. Rulers like Chak Tok Ichʼaak II played a key role in the politics and religion of their cities. They often led ceremonies and made important decisions for their people.
Family and Successors
Chak Tok Ichʼaak II was part of a royal family that ruled Tikal for many generations. His father was Kʼan Chitam, who was also an ajaw of Tikal before him. His mother was Lady Tzutz Nik. After Chak Tok Ichʼaak II died, the rule of Tikal passed to others. His successors included Lady of Tikal and Kaloomteʼ Bahlam. He also had a son named Wak Chan Kʼawiil, who would later become a very famous ruler of Tikal.
Monuments and Discoveries
Archaeologists study ancient monuments to learn about past rulers. Several important stone monuments, known as stelae, are connected to Chak Tok Ichʼaak II. These include Stelae 3, 7, 15, and 21. Stelae are tall stone slabs that the Maya carved with pictures and hieroglyphic writing. They often tell stories about rulers, important dates, and major events. Stela 26 might also be linked to him. These monuments help us understand the history of Tikal and the life of its rulers.
