Did the Mayans Use Chocolate as Currency?

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SUMMARY

The Mayans did not utilize money in their economy; instead, they engaged in barter systems. Commonly exchanged items included chocolate, fabric, corn (maize), and tobacco. This conclusion is supported by a systematic analysis of visual depictions found in murals, ceramic paintings, and carvings that illustrate exchanges and tribute payments among the Mayans. The discussion highlights the contrast between Mayan barter practices and other forms of currency used in different cultures.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Mayan civilization and culture
  • Familiarity with barter systems and their economic implications
  • Knowledge of visual anthropology and artifact analysis
  • Awareness of historical trade practices across different cultures
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  • Research the role of chocolate in Mesoamerican cultures
  • Explore the significance of barter systems in ancient economies
  • Investigate visual anthropology methods for analyzing historical artifacts
  • Examine other cultures that utilized non-monetary forms of exchange, such as the use of shells in New Guinea
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Historians, anthropologists, and anyone interested in the economic practices of ancient civilizations, particularly those studying the Mayan culture and barter systems.

BillTre
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Mayans did not use money, but instead bartered.
Frequent items bartered included chacolate, nice fabric (or clothes), corn (maize), and tobacco.
This was figured out by a systematic analysis of visual depictions on murals, ceramic paintings and carvings that depicted exchanges and tribute payments.
Science news article here.
 
Science news on Phys.org
BillTre said:
Mayans did not use money, but instead bartered.
Frequent items bartered included chacolate, nice fabric (or clothes), corn (maize), and tobacco.
This was figured out by a systematic analysis of visual depictions on murals, ceramic paintings and carvings that depicted exchanges and tribute payments.
Science news article here.
Far better than what we used: salt!
 
No money - no pension plan.
Or wait, maybe they still relied upon the old style of their kids for support in old agedness.
 
Not to mention Hanukka Gelt
 
Inland New Guinea used sea shells. This image is still on their paper money.

They had forgotten the ocean existed, even though it was only a few days away. Travel was dangerous -- other tribes would kill you.
 
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