# K'inich Janaab' Pakal

> ajaw of Palenque

**Wikidata**: [Q371384](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q371384)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kʼinich_Janaabʼ_Pakal)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/k-inich-janaab-pakal

## Summary
K'inich Janaab' Pakal was an ajaw (ruler) of Palenque, a major Mayan city-state. He is best known for his long reign and significant contributions to the political and cultural development of the Maya civilization. His rule marked a period of expansion and cultural flourishing in the region.

## Biography
- Born: March 23, 603
- Nationality: Mayan
- Education: [Not specified]
- Known for: Establishing Palenque as a dominant Mayan city-state
- Employer(s): Palenque
- Field(s): Political leadership, cultural governance

## Contributions
K'inich Janaab' Pakal ruled Palenque from 615 to 683, overseeing its expansion and cultural prominence. His reign is marked by the construction of major structures, including the Temple of the Inscriptions, which contains detailed historical records. He also promoted trade and diplomacy, strengthening Palenque's influence in the Maya world.

## FAQs
- **Who was K'inich Janaab' Pakal?**
  K'inich Janaab' Pakal was an ajaw of Palenque, ruling from 615 to 683. He is remembered for his long reign and the cultural achievements of his time.

- **Where did K'inich Janaab' Pakal rule?**
  He ruled Palenque, a significant Mayan city-state in what is now Mexico.

- **What is K'inich Janaab' Pakal known for?**
  He is known for his political leadership, architectural projects, and the preservation of Mayan history through inscriptions.

## Why They Matter
K'inich Janaab' Pakal's reign was pivotal in shaping the political and cultural landscape of the Maya world. His rule saw the construction of monumental structures and the recording of historical events, providing valuable insights into Mayan society. His legacy continues to be studied by historians and archaeologists, offering a window into the complexities of ancient Maya governance.

## Notable For
- Ruled Palenque for nearly 70 years, one of the longest reigns in Mayan history.
- Commissioned the Temple of the Inscriptions, which contains detailed historical records.
- Strengthened Palenque's influence through trade and diplomacy.

## Body
### Early Life and Rise to Power
K'inich Janaab' Pakal was born on March 23, 603. He ascended to the throne of Palenque in 615, succeeding his father, Ahkal Mo' Nahb' II. His early reign was marked by political consolidation and the expansion of Palenque's territory.

### Reign and Achievements
Pakal's reign lasted until his death on August 28, 683. During his rule, Palenque reached its peak as a political and cultural center. He oversaw the construction of major structures, including the Temple of the Inscriptions, which contains detailed historical records and inscriptions.

### Cultural and Political Influence
Under Pakal's leadership, Palenque became a hub of trade and diplomacy. His reign saw the city's influence extend across the Maya world, with trade networks connecting Palenque to other major cities. The Temple of the Inscriptions, completed during his rule, serves as a testament to his architectural vision and the city's cultural significance.

### Legacy
K'inich Janaab' Pakal's legacy endures through the historical and archaeological records preserved in Palenque. His reign is studied by historians and archaeologists to understand the political and cultural dynamics of the Maya world. The Temple of the Inscriptions, in particular, provides a valuable resource for understanding the historical context of Pakal's rule.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.mesoweb.com/palenque/resources/rulers/PalenqueRulers-05.pdf)
2. Integrated Authority File
3. International Standard Name Identifier
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013