USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -maguey, any of several plants in the Agave genus (family Asparagaceae), especially A. americana, and the fibre obtained from its leaves. A. americana is shorter and stiffer than henequen, with physical properties similar to the hard leaf fibre cantala, and is used for rope and cordage.

Detailed explanation-2: -Maguey is used as live fencing that controls cattle and prevents erosion. It can be formed into rope, used as fuel, and made into paper – very important paper. Ancient records and ritual calendars were painted on maguey and ancient Codices from Mesoamerican cultures illustrate lives linked to the use of maguey.

Detailed explanation-3: -Inca bridges were made of strong Andean grasses, particularly of ichu grass, which was made into ropes, and anchored with leather ties onto solid stone supports.

Detailed explanation-4: -The bridges were constructed using ichu grass woven into large bundles which were very strong. Part of the bridge’s strength and reliability came from the fact that each cable was replaced every year by local villagers as part of their mit’a public service or obligation.