This superb history covers all aspects of art, architecture, politics, warfare and religion of these most fascinating ancient peoples of Mexico and Central America, ranging from their magnificent step-pyramids and colossal stone temples, and their precious gold and delicate turquoise craftwork, to the intricate carvings and paintings which are still revealing a wealth of religious and cultural information to modern archaeologists. This book unveils the lost world of the Aztec, Maya and many other peoples found by the European conquistadors - a world historians and archaeologists are only now rediscovering. In this magnificently illustrated history, America's extraordinary past is revealed, with over 275 photographs, maps and fine art illustrations of the landscape, architecture and original works of art and documents. This survey of Mesoamerican history focuses on the truth about blood sacrifice, warfare and military life, royal power and government. It follows the 3000-year-old history of the awe-inspiring cities, vast trading networks and complex religious societies of the Olmec, Toltec, Maya, Mixtec, Aztec and many other tribes and empires. Words, pictures and diagrams provide fascinating insights into these ancient civilizations' pioneering successes in astronomy and the development of calendars and mathematics.