Yuri Knorosov

Yuri Knorosov was a significant Russian linguist and ethnographer, best known for his pioneering work in deciphering Maya hieroglyphics. In the mid-20th century, he proposed that the script was phonetic, meaning it represented sounds rather than just complex symbols. His research laid the foundation for modern understanding of Mayan writing, revealing it as a sophisticated system capable of expressing language. Knorosov’s insights challenged previous assumptions and opened paths for further studies into ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, underscoring the importance of deciphering historical languages to unlock cultural heritage.