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Published on: May 1, 2018
Radar mapping, archeology, and ancient maya land use
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 25, 1981
Summary
Ancient Maya civilization had a more robust economic base than previously understood, supported by intensive cultivation of swampy areas. New data reveal extensive ancient canal systems used for large-scale agriculture during the Late Classic period.
Area of Science:
- Archaeology
- Ancient Civilizations
- Agricultural History
Background:
- A long-standing incongruity exists between the known complexity of ancient Maya civilization and its reconstructed economic base.
- Previous understanding suggested a relatively feeble economic foundation for this complex society.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the agricultural practices and economic underpinnings of the ancient Maya civilization.
- To reconcile the perceived complexity of Maya society with its reconstructed economic base.
Main Methods:
- Utilized synthetic aperture radar (SAR) in aerial surveys of the southern Maya lowlands.
- Conducted ground checks, excavations, and ground surveys in limited areas to confirm and gather comparative data on ancient canals.
Main Results:
- Identified extensive ancient canal systems, suggesting large-scale drainage for intensive cultivation.
- Confirmed the existence and function of these canals through ground verification and excavations.
- Evidence indicates much more intensive cultivation patterns than previously thought.
Conclusions:
- Late Classic period Maya civilization was supported by a strong economic foundation.
- This economic base was derived from large-scale, intensive cultivation of swampy zones facilitated by sophisticated canal systems.
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