Historians have long debated the agricultural capacity of the ancient Maya during the Classic period (250–900 CE), with some arguing that Maya farming was strictly localized and relied entirely on simple rain-fed slash-and-burn techniques. Archaeologist Dr. Marcus Vance, however, contends that the Maya constructed sophisticated, regional water-management systems that integrated canals and reservoirs to sustain crop yields and support dense populations throughout prolonged dry seasons. Which finding from Vance's archaeological excavations, if true, would most directly support his contention?
- ASoil analyses indicated that the crops grown in the domestic gardens of Classic period Maya households were highly diverse and included root vegetables alongside maize and beans.
- BRecords of food tributes paid to Maya rulers suggest that these elites managed the redistribution of agricultural surpluses to urban populations during years of low harvest.
- Excavations revealed a multi-kilometer network of clay-lined canals and massive reservoirs that successfully diverted and stored seasonal runoff to irrigate terraced fields across three major Maya cities.Answer
- DExcavation records indicate that the reservoirs built by the Maya were designed exclusively for drinking water and were physically isolated from any agricultural fields.
Answer
The finding that excavations revealed a multi-kilometer network of clay-lined canals and massive reservoirs that successfully diverted and stored seasonal runoff to irrigate terraced fields across three major Maya cities.
The correct answer provides direct evidence of large-scale infrastructure (canals and reservoirs) that was integrated with agriculture across multiple urban centers. This directly supports the researcher's claim that the Maya built regional water-management systems to sustain crops during dry periods.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Identifying textual evidence that directly supports a specific research claim or hypothesis.