The Mayan Civilization Collapse
Introduction
The ancient Mayan civilization, which flourished in Mesoamerica from 2000 BCE to 1500 CE, is known for its impressive architectural and artistic achievements, advanced writing system, and sophisticated astronomical knowledge. However, despite its grandeur and accomplishments, the civilization experienced a sudden and inexplicable collapse around 900 CE, which is a subject of intense academic and public interest. Scholars have proposed several theories to explain the reasons behind the decline and collapse of the Mayan civilization, ranging from environmental degradation, economic factors, to political instability, and social conflicts. This thesis article aims to critically analyze the various theories put forward to explain the Mayan collapse and provide a nuanced understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of the event.