Yuknoom Head facts for kids

Yuknoom Head (Cauac Head) was a powerful king of the Maya people. He led the Kaan Kingdom, also known as the Snake Kingdom. He ruled from 630 to 636 AD.

Yuknoom Head's Time as King

Yuknoom Head became king after Tajoom Uk'ab K'ahk'. His kingdom, Kaan, wanted to regain control over the city of Naranjo. Naranjo had stopped following Kaan after a loyal leader, Aj Wosal Chan K'inich, died.

Before Yuknoom Head, King Tajoom Uk'ab K'ahk' started fighting Naranjo. He helped K'an II, a king from Caracol, defeat Naranjo twice. But it was Yuknoom Head who took strong action. In 631, he led a "star war" against Naranjo and won. A "star war" was a very important and powerful battle for the Maya.

Where Did Yuknoom Head Rule From?

This big victory was carved into the Naranjo Hieroglyphic Stairway 1. The carvings call Yuknoom Head the kaanal ajaw ta uxte'tuun. This means "the Kaan lord at Uxte'tuun." Uxte'tuun was the old name for Calakmul. This suggests that earlier Snake kings might have ruled from a different place, perhaps Dzibanche.

More Victories and Records

Yuknoom Head had another military success in 636. This time, he won a battle against a city that is not known today.

There are two stone monuments, called Stelae 76 and 78, that are believed to be from Yuknoom Head's reign. However, they are very old and worn down, so it's hard to see all the details.