Investigate the importance of cloth production by women to Mayan, Aztec, and Incan society. (1 point)

1. It kept the women busy so that they could not interfere in men's affairs.

2. It employed slave labor on a massive scale.

3. It was the largest industry, and cloth often served as money.

4. It was tightly controlled by the government, which distributed cloth to those who needed it.

1 answer

3. It was the largest industry, and cloth often served as money.

Cloth production played a significant role in Mayan, Aztec, and Incan societies due to its importance in both economic and social aspects.

Firstly, cloth production was a major industry in these civilizations. Women played a crucial role in creating textiles, using various techniques such as weaving, dyeing, and embroidery. The production of cloth involved sourcing materials like cotton or llama and alpaca wool, and spinning and weaving them into garments and other textiles. This industry employed a large number of women who were skilled in these crafts.

Secondly, cloth often served as a form of currency in these societies. In the absence of a standardized monetary system, textiles had intrinsic value and could be used for bartering and trade. Cloth was highly sought-after and had widespread use as both clothing and as a medium of exchange. Consequently, cloth production became a vital economic activity, providing a means of acquiring goods and services.

Thirdly, cloth production was closely regulated by the government in these civilizations. The rulers of the Mayan, Aztec, and Incan societies recognized the economic significance of textiles and its potential for social control. They implemented strict regulations and quality control measures to maintain the production and distribution of cloth. The government played a role in overseeing the process, ensuring a steady supply of textiles and their distribution to those in need. This control reinforced the importance of cloth production to society.

Overall, cloth production was a crucial aspect of Mayan, Aztec, and Incan societies. It served as the largest industry, provided a form of currency, and was tightly controlled by the government. The labor-intensive nature of cloth production meant that women played a significant role in these activities, showcasing their importance and influence within these societies.