JOURNAL ARTICLE

Stalagmites reveal devastating droughts that helped spur Maya breakdown.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Brown, Taylor Mitchell 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the impact of climate change, specifically droughts, on the collapse of the ancient Maya civilization around 1200 years ago. Researchers analyzed stalagmites from Grutas Tzabnah cave in Mexico to establish a detailed record of rainfall and drought during this period, revealing at least four significant droughts, including a 13-year "megadrought" that coincided with the civilization's decline. The findings suggest that these prolonged dry spells severely affected agriculture and political structures, leading to social upheaval and migration among the Maya. Despite the collapse of certain groups, others adapted and continued to thrive through political reorganization. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/08, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:187671017
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