Why was it difficult for large civilizations in Mesoamerica and South America to hold together?
difficulty in growing food
weak military
religious differences that caused disputes within the civilizations
variations in environment and geography that made travel and communication difficult
All of the reasons you mentioned contributed to the difficulties that large civilizations in Mesoamerica and South America faced in holding together. Let's break them down:
1. Difficulty in growing food: Agriculture was a critical factor for large civilizations, and Mesoamerica and South America had various challenges in this aspect. The terrain in these regions varied greatly, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts to high-altitude mountains. These different environments meant that different crops and agricultural practices were required, which made it difficult to maintain a consistent and reliable food supply throughout the empire. Droughts, flooding, and other natural disasters could also devastate crops, leading to food shortages and potential unrest among the population.
2. Weak military: While some civilizations in Mesoamerica, such as the Aztecs, built formidable military forces, others did not have such strong military capabilities. This made them vulnerable to attacks from rival civilizations or external forces. It became challenging for these civilizations to defend and expand their territories, especially if they lacked the necessary military resources or strategic alliances.
3. Religious differences that caused disputes within the civilizations: Religion played a significant role in Mesoamerican and South American societies, and there were often religious differences and conflicts between different cities or groups within a civilization. These disputes could lead to internal divisions and power struggles, making it harder for the empire to hold together as a cohesive unit. Religious disagreements could be particularly damaging because they directly challenged the authority and legitimacy of rulers and often resulted in conflicts that weakened overall stability.
4. Variations in environment and geography that made travel and communication difficult: The diverse geography of Mesoamerica and South America, including rugged mountains, dense jungles, and vast distances, made travel and communication between different regions a daunting task. Lack of efficient transportation infrastructure, such as roads or navigable rivers, hindered the movement of people and goods across the empire. This limited interaction and exchange between various parts of the civilization, impeding the development of a shared sense of identity and unity.
In conclusion, a combination of factors including agricultural challenges, military weaknesses, religious disputes, and geographical obstacles made it difficult for large civilizations in Mesoamerica and South America to maintain cohesion and stability over time.