Why was it difficult for large civilizations in Mesoamerica and South America to hold together?
variations in environment and geography that made travel and communication difficult
religious differences that caused disputes within the civilizations
weak military
difficulty in growing food
There were several factors that made it difficult for large civilizations in Mesoamerica and South America to hold together:
1. Variations in environment and geography: Mesoamerica and South America are characterized by diverse terrains, ranging from mountainous regions to dense rainforests and arid deserts. These variations in environment made travel and communication challenging, hindering the unity and cohesion of large civilizations.
2. Religious differences: Mesoamerica and South America were home to numerous indigenous groups, each with their own distinct religious beliefs and practices. These religious differences often led to disputes and conflicts between different civilizations, causing fragmentation rather than unity.
3. Weak military: Some of the large civilizations in Mesoamerica and South America lacked advanced military techniques, making them susceptible to invasions and attacks from rival groups. This weakened their ability to maintain control and hold their territories together.
4. Difficulty in growing food: Agriculture was the primary means of sustenance in these civilizations, but the availability of arable land varied across the regions. Limited agricultural resources and challenges in food production often resulted in food scarcity, which could lead to social unrest and destabilization within the civilizations.
Overall, the combination of environmental barriers, religious differences, weak military capabilities, and challenges in food production contributed to the difficulties faced by large civilizations in Mesoamerica and South America in maintaining lasting unity.