reigning monarch in the history of the Western Hemishphere. Starting in 615,

Pakal ruled transformed the Mayan city-state of Palenque from an often

conquered client city to a regional powerhouse in Southern Mexico. Known for

his immense building projects, the discovery of Pakal’s intact tomb has led

some to call him the Tutankhamun of the Americas. In a Mayan society fueled by

endless competition and brutal war, this great king stands as a giant amongst

others of his day. On this episode we discuss Kinich Janaab Pakal, King of

Palenque.