Question 57

Maya developed a system of writing in pre-Columbian America.

The Maya civilization is known for its sophisticated system of writing, often referred to as Maya glyphs. This writing system was used for various purposes, including record-keeping, religious texts, and historical documentation.

A) Maya

This option is correct because the Maya developed one of the most complex writing systems in pre-Columbian America, utilizing hieroglyphs to convey their language in a variety of contexts, including monumental inscriptions and codices.

B) Inca

The Inca did not develop a written language like the Maya. Instead, they used a system of knotted strings called quipu for record-keeping, which conveyed information but was not a true writing system.

C) Iroquois

The Iroquois did not have a developed system of writing prior to European contact. They relied on oral traditions to transmit their history, culture, and laws, making this option incorrect.

D) Cherokee

While the Cherokee developed a syllabary in the early 19th century, this was after the pre-Columbian era. Therefore, they did not have a writing system during the pre-Columbian period like the Maya did.

Conclusion

The Maya are definitively the correct answer as they established a complex writing system that was utilized long before European contact. The other options either did not have a writing system or developed one after the pre-Columbian period, making them incorrect in this context.