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What was the significance of the Mesoamerican ballgame?

Trumaine Kynoch

Well, let me tell you, the Mesoamerican ballgame was a pretty big deal! It was actually a super important part of ancient Mesoamerican culture and was played by many different civilizations, including the Aztecs and Mayans.

So, what made the ballgame so significant? Well, for starters, it was more than just a game. It was actually seen as a sacred ritual that embodied many of the core values that these civilizations held dear. The ballgame was often played in larger religious or political contexts, such as during the dedication of a temple or the settling of political disputes.

The ballgame also had some pretty crazy rules. For one thing, players were only allowed to use their hips, knees, and elbows to hit the ball, which was made of rubber and often weighed several pounds. In some versions of the game, the ball could only be touched by the players' feet or shoulders. This made for a really physically demanding and intense game, with players sometimes getting seriously injured or even killed.

Despite this, the ballgame was still seen as a way to connect with the gods and to honor the sacrifices that had been made in their honor. Some versions of the ballgame even included human sacrifice, with the losing team or captain being sacrificed to honor the gods and ensure prosperity and success.

So overall, the Mesoamerican ballgame was a really complex and multifaceted part of ancient Mesoamerican culture. It served as a way to connect with the gods, settle disputes, and uphold important cultural values. It was a game that demanded a lot physically and emotionally from its players, and its significance is still felt today by those who study and appreciate Mesoamerican history.