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Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II
Ajaw
Pre-Columbian collection, Dumbarton OaksDSCF7973.JPG
Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II's portrait on a lintel
King of Palenque
Reign 28 May 702 – 711/21?
Predecessor Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II
Successor Kʼinich Ahkal Moʼ Nahb III
Born 31 October 644
Palenque
Died 721(721-00-00) (aged 76–77)
Palenque
Father Kʼinich Janaab Pakal I
Mother Lady Tzʼakbu Ajaw of Tortuguero
Religion Maya religion
Signature Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II's signature

Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II was a powerful king of the ancient Maya city of Palenque. He is also known by other names like Kan Xul II and Kʼan Hokʼ Chitam On II. He was born on October 31, 644. He became the ruler, or ajaw, of Palenque on May 28, 702. He ruled for about nine years. His time as king ended around 711 or possibly 721.

Who Was Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II?

Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II was part of a very important royal family in Palenque. His father was the famous King Kʼinich Janaab Pakal I, often called "Pacal the Great." Pacal the Great ruled Palenque for a very long time, 68 years! Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II's mother was Lady Tzʼakbu Ajaw.

His Family and Early Life

Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II had an older brother named Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II. His brother ruled Palenque before him. It is also thought that he might have had another brother named Tiwol Chan Mat. Growing up in the royal palace of Palenque, he would have been prepared to one day take on a leadership role.

Becoming King of Palenque

After his older brother, Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II, finished his reign, Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II became the new king. He took the throne on May 28, 702. This was an important day for Palenque and for him. As king, he was responsible for leading his people and city.

His Reign and Capture

Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II ruled Palenque for about nine years. During his reign, Palenque was a powerful Maya city. However, there were often conflicts between different Maya cities. In 711, Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II was captured by warriors from a rival city called Toniná. The leader of Toniná at that time was Kʼinich Baaknal Chaak. It is not fully clear what happened to Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II after his capture. Some historians believe he might have been executed. Others think he might have been returned to his kingship later.

What Happened Next?

After Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II's reign ended, a new king took over in late 721. This new ruler was Kʼinich Ahkal Moʼ Nahb III. Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II's story shows how kings in the ancient Maya world faced both power and danger.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: K'inich K'an Joy Chitam II para niños

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