The decline of the Maya civilization is a complex subject with various factors contributing to its eventual downfall. While a single definitive cause has not been identified, researchers believe that a combination of factors such as climate change, unsustainable agriculture, disease, warfare, and socio-political instability contributed to the decline. Extended periods of drought caused by climate change likely led to food shortages, putting stress on the agricultural system and the population. Furthermore, increased competition for resources among neighboring city-states resulted in warfare, weakening their overall stability. These factors, along with possible disease outbreaks and internal upheaval, contributed to the decline of the once-thriving Maya civilization.
You are an archaeologist who specializes in ancient civilizations. Describe what led to the decline of the Maya civilization.