Maya rulers are listed in the World History Encyclopedia, as well as Maya Civilization for Kids: Government.
The centers of power for the Maya civilization were the kings.Each Maya city-state had a dynasty of kings.The oldest son usually takes over the position of king.
The claim to power of the Maya kings was important to them.One way to do this was to build a temple.The Tikal Temple I is an example.The temple was built during the reign of Yikin Chan Kawiil.The Temple of Inscriptions at Palenque would later be built by another king.The Temple of Inscriptions is the symbol of power and influence in Palenque.
The godlike personas were created by the Maya kings.War and bloodshed were usually the result of a ruler dying and leaving no heir to the throne.Pacal I died on the battlefield.The city of Palenque, a Maya capital city in southern Mexico, invited a young prince from a different city-state.The prince was young.
Pacal and his predecessors built more than just temples and pyramids.Their city-state became a prosperous empire.A super city-state was formed when Tikal conquered Calakmul and the other cities around it.A major center for power and development was created by Pacal.
An excellent military leader was expected from a Maya king.He would conduct raids against other city-states.The gods were offered blood from the Maya kings.War and food crises were expected to be solved by the rulers.
The gods were expected to receive the prayers, praise and attention they deserved.They displayed public rituals in the streets of their cities.Blood sacrifice was done by the lords and their wives.[3]