Why did Mayan culture collapse centuries ago? New large archaeological finds in Central America are filling in the puzzle. “Some estimates put the Maya population in the lowland jungles at a staggering 500 people per square mile, roughly twice the current density in Florida. Just before the collapse there are more Maya around then ever before, and they’re packed into cities that are larger, more numerous, and more closely spaced. The slightest added stress could have precipitated a catastrophic spiral of collapse. A drought, war, or crop failure could have pushed the society over the edge.” – Chronicle of Higher Education