Which of the following could be used as evidence for a hypothesis supporting the internal decline of the Mayas
A volcanic eruption destroyed Mayan civilization
Figurines of non-Mayan figures were found.
The Toltec were aggressive neighbors to the Maya.
The region where the Maya lived suffered from two megadroughts
Among the options presented, the one that could be used as evidence for a hypothesis supporting the internal decline of the Mayas is:
D) The region where the Maya lived suffered from two megadroughts.
The reason this could be used as evidence supporting internal decline is because environmental factors, such as megadroughts, can lead to agricultural failure, food shortages, water scarcity, and consequently, social stress and internal conflict. These are all internal factors that do not rely on external forces such as conquest or invasion.
The other options are less suitable as evidence for internal decline:
A) A volcanic eruption destroyed Mayan civilization - While this could contribute to the decline, a volcanic eruption is an external catastrophic event, not necessarily evidence of internal decline. It could be the trigger for a collapse but doesn’t explain the nature of the internal societal mechanisms that failed.
B) Figurines of non-Mayan figures were found - This could suggest cultural exchange, trade, or influence from other groups but doesn't directly relate to internal decline. If anything, it might imply external cultural or artistic influence, which isn’t inherently a sign of decline.
C) The Toltec were aggressive neighbors to the Maya - This alludes to external pressures or conflicts with neighboring societies but doesn't directly speak to the internal dynamics of the Maya civilization that could lead to decline.
Remember however that the decline of the Maya civilization is a complex topic with multiple contributing factors. It is likely that a combination of environmental changes, social upheaval, political instability, and possibly external pressures all played a role. Archaeological evidence, historical records, and environmental data all contribute to understanding the full picture of the Maya collapse.