Mayan Theory

http://www.clarku.edu/departments/ges/images/milpa.jpg

http://www.magiccarpetjournals.com/Cancun/mayanhome-1.jpg

http://guatemalahist.com/itzamna0.gif



I think the reason why the Mayans disappeared from the Classical Period was because they believed in a myths passed down generation to generation. This myth prophesied that if the temperatures reached over 100 degrees Fahrenheit on December 1st, a severe drought would occur in the following spring. On December 1st, 452 A.D the temperatures reached 102 degrees- the Mayans knew that a drought was eminent, a drought so severe that it would destroy all crops and vegetables. We know from studying many of their primary food sources came from the land in the farm of crops and vegetables. Therefore, to stay, meant to starve, at least by choosing to leave, there was a small possibility of survival.