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Climate and Collapse Before Columbus

In: Climate Change, Economic Channels, and Historical Junctures

Author

Listed:
  • Sherif Khalifa

    (California State University, Fullerton, Department of Economics)

Abstract

This chapter focuses on stories of societal collapse due to climate change in the Americas before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. This starts with the collapse of the Tiwanaku in the Andes. The chapter describes the way of life in the Tiwanaku empire and its sphere of influence, and the drought that brought about the end of such a civilization. The chapter also covers the effects of climate change in Mesoamerica, especially that of the Maya civilization. The history of the Mayas, their story lurking in the ruins they left behind, their final collapse, and the scholarly evidence on the potential impact of climate change are discussed in detail. The chapter also covers the fatal effect of climatic fluctuations on the Puebloan culture in North America, with some scholarly evidence on the subject. This is followed by the story of the climate shock to the society in the Easter Island in the Southeast Pacific with a discussion on the ecocide and genocide hypotheses of collapse. The chapter concludes with the story of the emergence and demise of the Cahokia culture in North America.

Suggested Citation

  • Sherif Khalifa, 2026. "Climate and Collapse Before Columbus," Springer Books, in: Climate Change, Economic Channels, and Historical Junctures, chapter 0, pages 227-256, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-91867-4_9
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-91867-4_9
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