In ancient Mesoamerica, the jaguar god Panthera Onca was worshiped. The predatory feline was considered divine by cultures like the Olmec, the Maya, and the Aztecs. In the art and architecture of these civilizations, it is evident that the jaguar was aligned with military prowess. One of the most prominent examples is the throne of El Castillo – Chichen Itza's great pyramid – which is adorned with the image of a red jaguar. In many depictions, there were half-jaguar, half-human beings, thus symbolizing the man with the jaguar's might. Fertility and the earth were also tied to the beast, as seen in the Aztec goddess Tlaltecuhtli, whose claws were those of the feline predator (via National Geographic).
The jaguar's role in society was complex. It was connected to the sky and earth, and to light and dark. This multidimensional role gave it a power that was transferred to Mesoamerican rulers. They were so respected that kings and warriors even added the jaguar to their names, and kings in Mayan culture adorned themselves with jaguar skins, per National Geographic.
Although the jaguar doesn't hold the same status in modern times, the animal is still celebrated by people in Guerrero, Mexico, who dress up as jaguars and partake in festivals. Although the feline is threatened by population decline and habitat loss, plenty of people in Mexico and Central America still admire the cat of ancient lore (via National Geographic).
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