Tarascan meaning

Tarascan refers to the indigenous people of western Mexico, particularly those from the Michoacán region.


Tarascan definitions

Word backwards nacsaraT
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division Tar-as-can
Plural The plural form of "Tarascan" is "Tarascans."
Total letters 8
Vogais (1) a
Consonants (5) t,r,s,c,n

The Tarascan Civilization

Tarascan was an ancient civilization that thrived in the western region of Mexico, specifically in the state of Michoacán. This civilization is also known as the Purepecha civilization, named after the ethnonym of the indigenous people who inhabited the area. The Tarascans had a rich cultural heritage and a complex society that left a lasting impact on the history of Mesoamerica.

History and Culture

The Tarascans were known for their advanced craftsmanship, particularly in metallurgy and ceramics. They were highly skilled in creating intricate jewelry, tools, and pottery, which often featured elaborate designs and motifs. The civilization also excelled in agriculture, with a sophisticated system of irrigated farming that allowed them to sustain a large population.

Political Organization

The Tarascan civilization was characterized by a hierarchical society, with a king or ruler at the top of the social structure. The kingdom was divided into different regions, each ruled by a local governor who answered to the king. This system of governance allowed the Tarascans to maintain a centralized authority while also granting some degree of autonomy to local leaders.

Religion and Beliefs

Religion played a significant role in Tarascan society, with the belief in multiple deities and spirits that governed various aspects of life. The Tarascans practiced complex rituals and ceremonies to honor their gods, often involving offerings and sacrifices. The empire also had a strong emphasis on ancestor worship and revered their past rulers as divine figures.

Decline and Legacy

Like many other civilizations in Mesoamerica, the Tarascan civilization faced challenges from external threats and internal conflicts that eventually led to its decline. The arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century led to the downfall of the Tarascan empire, as the colonizers imposed their own political and religious systems on the region. Despite this, the legacy of the Tarascans continues to be celebrated in modern-day Michoacán, where their art, traditions, and customs are still preserved and honored.


Tarascan Examples

  1. I learned about the Tarascan civilization in my history class.
  2. The Tarascan language is still spoken by some indigenous groups in Mexico.
  3. The Tarascan people are known for their vibrant traditional clothing.
  4. Tarascan pottery is highly sought after by collectors.
  5. I bought a beautiful Tarascan rug during my trip to Michoacán.
  6. The Tarascan capital of Tzintzuntzan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  7. Tarascan cuisine includes dishes like uchepos and corundas.
  8. I attended a traditional Tarascan dance performance at the local festival.
  9. The Tarascan region is known for its stunning natural landscapes.
  10. The Tarascan people have a rich oral storytelling tradition.


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  • Updated 01/04/2024 - 03:03:38