How did Mesoamerican civilizations utilize agricultural surplus?

Mesoamerican civilizations effectively utilized agricultural surplus primarily to support trade networks. The cultivation of crops such as maize, beans, and squash led to the production of excess food that enabled these societies to engage in trade with neighboring regions. This surplus not only facilitated the exchange of goods but also encouraged economic interdependence among various civilizations, such as the Maya and the Aztec.

As agricultural productivity increased, elite classes were able to accumulate wealth, which further promoted trade in commodities, luxury items, and even military supplies. The establishment of trade routes allowed for a broader distribution of resources, cultures, and technologies, contributing to social complexity and development across Mesoamerica.

In contrast, the idea of sustaining a nomadic lifestyle does not align with the sedentary nature of Mesoamerican civilizations, which were based on agriculture. Likewise, while agricultural surplus did play a role in various constructions, it was not solely designated for building but influenced many facets of society, including trade. Military power benefited from surplus through logistics and provisioning, but it was not the primary purpose of agricultural output within these societies.