Question

which early american civilization constructed a vast system of roads that stepped up and down mountains?

a.) the aztec
b.) the maya
c.) the inca
d.) the olmec

Explanation:

Identify the key characteristics

The question asks for an early American civilization that constructed a vast system of roads traversing mountainous terrain, specifically stepping up and down mountains.

Analyze the geographical context

The Andes mountain range in South America was home to the Inca Empire. To connect their massive empire across rugged peaks and deep valleys, they built an extensive road network (the Qhapaq Ñan) featuring stone steps, suspension bridges, and paved paths.

Evaluate the given options

• The Aztec: Located in central Mexico; known for causeways and canals in Lake Texcoco, but not a vast mountain-stepping road system.
• The Maya: Located in Mesoamerica; built stone causeways called sacbeob through jungles, but not mountain-stepping networks.
• The Inca: Located in the Andes; famous for engineering thousands of miles of mountain roads with stone steps.
• The Olmec: An early Mesoamerican civilization; not associated with a vast mountain road network.

Using Historical Evidence, the Inca are the civilization renowned for this specific engineering feat.

Answer:

• a.) The Aztec
• b.) The Maya
• c.) The Inca (Correct answer)
• d.) The Olmec