Genetic studies show that the decline of Maya civilization was a reorganization

A new study rebuilds our perspective on the collapse of the classic Mayan civilization. Although the archaeological record had long suggested that a dramatic population falls about 1,200 years ago, new genetic evidences confirm that Maya people never really disappeared. Published in study Present biologyClassic Maya analyzed the genome from seven ancient individuals from the ancient city of Copan, which is located below the Western Honduras. The results highlight a strong thread of genetic continuity from late ancient times to the modern Maya population, providing new insight into migration, elite integration and permanent heritage of Maya civilization.

Cultural fusion of conflict

As StudyCopen was first settled by small agricultural communities during an early pre -pre -pre -pre -pre -pregnancy period (before ~ ​​1000 BCE). Memorable architecture and sophisticated inscriptions indicate that the city became a major maya center by the early classic period (300–400 CE). A royal dynasty began in 426/427 CE when K’inich Yax K’uk ‘Mo’, an outsider, accepted Shakti- an event that was supported by both Epigraphic and Genomic Evidence. Genetic data suggests that he, and other elite, came from the highland Mexican population, such as Chichen Itza.

Archaeological and historical records long suggested that elite maya migrants endangered with local non-Maya population to establish the state. The new genetic study supports this theory. Researchers found strong genetic continuity from late ancient era to modern Maya groups, as well as about 6% gene flow, regional integration and elite movement from the highland Mexican population.

Fall and continuity

The DNA analysis of the study suggests that the genetic continuity remained, despite the major decline in the population around the 750 CE. This indicates that the local population also remained as elite structures.

Traditional narratives described Maya collapse as a mysterious disappearance. But this study indicated that Maya people did not suddenly disappear, but they reorganized their identity by adopting, migrating and re -defined.