During which time period did the Mayans exist?

The correct time period during which the Maya civilization existed is generally recognized as spanning from approximately 2000 BC to the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century AD, with the height of their civilization occurring during the Classic Period from about 250 AD to 900 AD.

The time frame given in the option identified as correct, which is 1800 BC to 250 AD, does include early developments of agricultural societies in Mesoamerica and the beginnings of the Maya civilization, but it does not fully encompass the peak of Mayan culture and achievements that occurred later.

Recognizing this, the high point of Mayan civilization was during the Classic Period, with significant achievements in architecture, astronomy, and the development of a sophisticated writing system. The Classic Period is where the Maya reached their peak population and cultural influence, which occurred after the time frame provided in the selected answer.