An argument for Classic era Maya market exchange

► Market exchange was foundational to the political economy and stability of Classic Maya kingdoms. ► Classic era Tikal and Postclassic era Mayapán had highly similar and complex market exchange systems. ► Occupational specialization and access to valuables was well developed for Maya commoners through time. ► Residents of Maya cities were heavily dependent on regional supply networks for goods used in daily life. ► Maya governing nobility helped to organize ancient markets but they did not monopolize them.