CHAPTER XX.

GOVERNMENT, SOCIAL CLASSES, PROPERTY, AND LAWS OF THE MAYA NATIONS.

Introductory Remarks -- Votan's Empire -- Zamná's Reign -- The Royal Families of Yucatan, Cocomes, Tutul Xius, Itzas, and Cheles -- Titles and Order of Succession -- Classes of Nobles -- The Quiché-Cakchiquel Empire in Guatemala -- The Ahau Ahpop and Succession to the Throne -- Privileged Classes -- Government of the Provinces -- The Royal Council -- The Chiapanecs -- The Pipiles -- Nations of Nicaragua -- The Maya Priesthood -- Plebeian Classes -- Slaves -- Tenure of Lands -- Inheritance of Property -- Taxation -- Debtors and Creditor -- Laws and the Administration of Justice 630