Chakan (Maya province) facts for kids
Chakán (Mayan languages: Chakán, meaning 'oregano of this land' or 'macaw tail feathers') was the name of an important region in the Yucatán Peninsula during the time of the Maya civilization. When Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, Chakán was one of several independent areas. These areas were known as kuchkabalob.
Unlike some other Maya regions, Chakán did not have one strong ruler. It also did not have a single main government, like the provinces of Ceh Pech or Ah Kin Chel. This is known because when the Spanish arrived, Francisco de Montejo (el Mozo) was welcomed by some local leaders. These leaders were called batabob. However, other leaders, like Ah Kin Chuy, did not welcome him. Ah Kin Chuy even organized resistance in the eastern towns to fight against the Spanish settlers.
Caucel: An Important City
The most important city in the Chakán region was likely Caucel. This city controlled the trade of salt, which was a very valuable resource. The salt came from nearby places like Chuburná and Sisal.
The batab (leader) of Caucel was named Ah Kin Euán. He was very open to the Spanish from the start of their arrival. He even converted to Catholicism and changed his name to Francisco Euán. He kept his position as batab for a long time after the Spanish arrived.
Ti'Ho and the Founding of Mérida
Today, the capital city of Yucatan state is Mérida. This city was built on the ruins of an older Maya city called Ti'ho. By the mid-16th century, Ti'Ho was mostly abandoned. It did not have any clear leaders when the Spanish arrived.
See also
- In Spanish: Chakán para niños
