The Mississippian culture was a Native American civilization that thrived in the southeastern United States from around 800 AD to 1600 AD. Known for their impressive earthen mounds, such as those found at sites like Cahokia, the Mississippians were skilled farmers who cultivated crops like maize and beans. Their society was organized into complex chiefdoms, with a rich tradition of art and trade. This culture was marked by its vibrant communities, often centered around large towns with plazas and temples. The Mississippians engaged in extensive trade networks, exchanging goods like shells and pottery. Their decline began in the late 1500s, influenced by factors such as climate change and European contact.