How Peru's Ancient Civilization Survived a Climate Crisis

bitcoin In a remarkable archaeological breakthrough, researchers in Peru have unearthed significant insights into how the oldest known civilization in the Americas adapted to survive a climate crisis. Ruth Shady, a distinguished Peruvian archaeologist aged 78, leads the team that has revealed how approximately 4,200 years ago, a devastating drought compelled the residents of the ancient city of Caral to relocate to new settlements without resorting to violence.

Shady and her team discovered captivating friezes in these new settlements that illustrate the struggles faced during a famine, along with messages intended for future generations. “They left behind all this evidence so that people would not forget that the climate change was very severe, causing a crisis in Caral’s society and its civilization, and they did not want people to forget what caused it,” remarked Shady during her examination of a temple pyramid.

The first of the new settlements identified was Vichama, located to the west on the arid Pacific coast. Here, the inhabitants adapted by engaging in fishing and farming along the Huaura River valley. Another significant site is Peñico, situated approximately 10 miles east of Caral, also in the Supe River valley. This settlement dates back to the same time frame of 1800 to 1500 BC, coinciding with the emergence of early civilizations in the Middle East and Asia.

Archaeologists have noted that the people of Caral carried forward their sophisticated decorative techniques, evident in the temple pyramids and sunken circular plazas of the new cities. These settlements also showcased innovative imagery that chronicled their survival journey. A notable discovery at Vichama features three-dimensional mural reliefs on the walls of a temple atop a raised platform in the desert. These murals depict emaciated corpses with sunken bellies and protruding ribs, alongside images of pregnant women, ritual dancers, and large fish.

The imagery found at Vichama is particularly striking. Above the depictions of famine victims, a higher wall features a whimsical design of a toad emerging from the earth, with a lightning bolt striking its head. “After the deaths, the empty stomachs, a toad appears, emerging from the Earth with lightning striking its head, as if announcing the arrival of water,” explained Shady. This artistic representation may symbolize hope and renewal following a devastating period.

The drought that affected Caral is thought to be part of a larger phenomenon known as the 4.2ka mega drought, which some archaeologists suggest led to the abandonment of flourishing cities in regions such as Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. This environmental crisis may have contributed to the collapse of several ancient civilizations across the globe.

Recent excavations at Peñico have revealed up to 18 structures, including residential complexes that closely resemble the architectural style of the earlier Caral city, established around 800 years prior. Mauro Ordoñez, the chief archaeologist at Peñico, noted, “What stands out most is the organization and the layout of the settlement, the structure and design of their buildings.” This suggests that the social organization of the time was based on a political-ideological framework, evident in the settlement’s design and absence of everyday objects.

These findings not only enhance our understanding of early American civilizations but also underscore the profound impact of environmental changes on human societies. The tale of Caral and its inhabitants serves as a testament to resilience and adaptability in the face of significant challenges.

The discoveries made by Ruth Shady and her team shed light on the complexities of social dynamics and environmental challenges faced by the ancient civilization of Caral. As climate change continues to pose threats to modern societies, the lessons from these ancient peoples remind us of the importance of adaptation and the enduring human spirit. Their stories, etched in the friezes and murals of Vichama and Peñico, echo through time, urging us to learn from the past to navigate the challenges of our present and future.