<P> Under the ahau in the social classes was the kings . This class, also known as almehenob consisted of the positions of the local magistrates and executives, town counselors, deputies ah holpopob (who assisted local lords in governmental affairs) and the tupiles (policemen). </P> <P> The priests performed "activities of ritual, sacrifice, divination, astronomical observation, chronological calculations, hieroglyphic writings, religious instruction, management of the monasteries". In addition to these responsibilities, the priest assisted the ajaw with regards to politics as well . The class of the priests was also divided into other sections . These included the nacom (would cut the heart out of a sacrificial victim), who were assisted by four chacs and the ahmen (prophet and "the inflictor as well as the healer of diseases"). This occasion also occurs in the Aztec Civilization too . </P> <P> Merchants sold and traded with different cities . Artisans made pottery and designed buildings and temples . The Maya were accomplished traders . They traveled by sea, river and well - constructed roads to trade with other city - states . </P> <P> Then there were the peasants . Men were farmers and used the slash and burn agricultural method . Women had duties in the household . Some peasants were asked to be slaves of the king . This was decided by the nobles . </P>

Explain the contributions of the maya to art and civilization