K'uk' B'alam I

K'uk ' Bahlam I. ( born March 30, 397, † 435 ) was the first historically verifiable rulers ( Ajaw ) and founder of the dynasty of the Mayan city of Palenque. He reigned from 431 until his death.

Origin and reign

K'uk ' Bahlam I was born on March 30, 397 ( Long Count 8.18.0.13.6, Calendar Round 5 Kimi K'ayab 14 ) and ascended the throne on 10 March 431 ( 8.19.15.3.4, 1 K' at 2 K'ayab ). He bore the title "Lord of Toktahn ", who points to a yet unidentified location, perhaps its origin. His rule and the founding of Palenque fell into a period of great upheaval in the region of Peten. 378 had Sihyaj K'ahk ', ruler of Teotihuacan, overthrew the dynasty of Tikal and one of his henchmen used as new regent. The founding of Palenque may be associated with the power expansion of Teotihuacan, because the name Sihyaj K'ahk ' emerges here in an inscription dating from the 7th century.

Details of his nearly four -year reign are not known. The only date next to his inauguration will be on a panel from the 8th century, the investitures of dignitaries lists by the ruler of Palenque. Such an act seems K'uk ' Bahlam I. on 13 February 435 ( 8.19.19.3.0, 7 Ajaw 18 MUWAN ) to have performed. Only a few months later, he seems to have died, because in August followed in Casper II to the throne.

A stone portrait head was found in Palenque, shows either K'uk ' Bahlam I. or his namesake K'inich K'uk ' Bahlam II ( † after 736 ).