Which civilization is known for building a significant trade network and canals?

The Maya civilization is known for establishing an extensive trade network and a sophisticated system of canals. They developed a complex economy that heavily relied on trade, facilitating the exchange of goods such as cacao, textiles, and ceramics across vast distances. The Maya also constructed canals for irrigation and transportation, which not only supported agriculture in their often-challenging environment but also enhanced trade routes through their cities.

In contrast, while the Inca also had a remarkable network, it primarily focused on roads and did not utilize canals to the same extent as the Maya. The Aztec civilization certainly participated in trade as well, but their primary achievements were more aligned with agriculture and warfare rather than the extensive canal systems that characterized the Maya. The Olmec, being one of the earliest civilizations, laid some groundwork for future cultures but did not develop trade networks or canals to the same level of complexity as the Maya. This unique combination of canal systems and trade practices distinctly identifies the Maya civilization in historical studies.