Stela
A stone or wooden slab erected in the ancient world as a monument
Real World Example
In the Ancient Americas, a stela was an important monument often used by civilizations like the Maya to commemorate significant events, honor leaders, or mark religious ceremonies. These stone or wooden slabs were carved with intricate designs and inscriptions, serving as historical records and symbols of power and culture. The stelae played a crucial role in preserving the history and achievements of these civilizations, allowing us to learn about their society and values. Today, similar to how stelae captured history, we use monuments and memorials to remember significant events and figures, like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, which honors his contributions to civil rights. This connection shows that the desire to commemorate important people and events and learn from them is still relevant, reflecting our ongoing appreciation for history and legacy.