The mayan kings wanted to appease their gods and still remain autonomous(self-governing).how is this different than other civilizations? pls

Mayan rulers and nobles were considered half gods, half humans, and also chosen by the gods themselves to govern, while much of their work was to please and appease the gods, being like a bridge between the gods Mayas and men. This made the Maya think that their rulers actually had contact with the gods and could talk to them, giving a relationship where the Maya and their gods could ensure their understanding and good relationship. In other Mesoamerican groups, it was thought that the deities were very superior and there was no way to contact them, except through sacrifices and prayers of the monarchs and priests; but the Mayans thought that their monarchs, working for the gods, were in harmony and in order with the deity.

The transcontinental railroad provided a means of fast transportation. it cut a 6 month trip into 6 days, created jobs for many people and encouraged immigration. the homestead act played a huge role in western expansion; it allowed settlers to begin a fresh start, and gave them land in exchange for their residence for up to five years and a small fee.