Archaeological cultures refer to distinct groups of people in the past who shared similar traits in their material remains, such as tools, pottery, and structures. These traits help archaeologists identify and categorize different societies based on their artifacts and settlement patterns. For example, the Maya civilization is recognized for its unique pottery styles and architectural features. By studying archaeological cultures, researchers can gain insights into the social, economic, and technological aspects of ancient societies. This approach allows for comparisons between different cultures, such as the Indus Valley civilization and the Ancient Egyptians, revealing how they adapted to their environments and interacted with one another.