Maya Collapse Revisited: The Bajo Farming Theory
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In this episode, Lucas and Luna dig into a lesser-known but crucial factor in the Classic Maya collapse: the failure of bajo farming systems. As Tikal's population swelled, farmers pushed into seasonal swamps (bajos) that initially offered fertile soil but became ecological traps. Lucas explains how deforestation, erosion, and nutrient depletion turned these wetlands into barren grasslands, undermining the agricultural base that supported Tikal's 60,000 people. They discuss lidar discoveries by Timothy Beach and Sheryl Luzzadder-Beach showing ancient canal networks and raised fields, and how mismanagement may have exacerbated drought conditions. The conversation also touches on the role of maize monoculture, the Maya's own environmental impact, and why this slow-motion crisis is a cautionary tale for modern agriculture.
#Maya #ClassicMaya #Tikal #Bajos #Agriculture #Collapse #Lidar #TimothyBeach #SherylLuzzadderBeach #Maize #Deforestation #Erosion #Wetlands #RaisedFields #Mesoamerica #Archaeology #History #FexingoHistory
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