Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel located in the Andes mountains of Peru, was abandoned in the 16th century. While several theories exist regarding its abandonment, historical evidence supports certain hypotheses more strongly than others.

1. **Famine**: This is less likely as there is no substantial evidence indicating that food scarcity led to the abandonment of Machu Picchu. The Incan agricultural system was advanced, with terracing and irrigation techniques that allowed for consistent food production.

2. **Smallpox**: This theory holds significant weight. The spread of European diseases, including smallpox, had a devastating effect on the indigenous populations of the Americas, including the Incas. This could have led to a drastic decline in the population, making it difficult to maintain the settlement.

3. **Defeat by an enemy tribe**: While conflicts with enemy tribes did occur, there is limited evidence to directly link the abandonment of Machu Picchu to military defeat.

In conclusion, the most plausible explanation for the abandonment of Machu Picchu is the impact of smallpox and other European diseases, compounded by the social and political turmoil of the time following Spanish colonization.

Question

Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel located in the Andes mountains of Peru, was abandoned in the 16th century. While several theories exist regarding its abandonment, historical evidence supports certain hypotheses more strongly than others.

1. **Famine**: This is less likely as there is no substantial evidence indicating that food scarcity led to the abandonment of Machu Picchu. The Incan agricultural system was advanced, with terracing and irrigation techniques that allowed for consistent food production.

2. **Smallpox**: This theory holds significant weight. The spread of European diseases, including smallpox, had a devastating effect on the indigenous populations of the Americas, including the Incas. This could have led to a drastic decline in the population, making it difficult to maintain the settlement.

3. **Defeat by an enemy tribe**: While conflicts with enemy tribes did occur, there is limited evidence to directly link the abandonment of Machu Picchu to military defeat.

In conclusion, the most plausible explanation for the abandonment of Machu Picchu is the impact of smallpox and other European diseases, compounded by the social and political turmoil of the time following Spanish colonization.

Knowee AI · Accepted Answer

Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel located in the Andes mountains of Peru, was abandoned in the 16th century. While several theories exist regarding its abandonment, historical evidence supports certain hypotheses more strongly than others.

1. **Famine**: This is less likely as there is no substantial evidence indicating that food scarcity led to the abandonment of Machu Picchu. The Incan agricultural system was advanced, with terracing and irrigation techniques that allowed for consistent food production.

2. **Smallpox**: This theory holds significant weight. The spread of European diseases, including smallpox, had a devastating effect on the indigenous populations of the Americas, including the Incas. This could have led to a drastic decline in the population, making it difficult to maintain the settlement.

3. **Defeat by an enemy tribe**: While conflicts with enemy tribes did occur, there is limited evidence to directly link the abandonment of Machu Picchu to military defeat.

In conclusion, the most plausible explanation for the abandonment of Machu Picchu is the impact of smallpox and other European diseases, compounded by the social and political turmoil of the time following Spanish colonization.

One possible reason for Machu Picchu being abandoned isGroup of answer choicesFamineSmallpoxDefeat by an enemy tribe

Question

One possible reason for Machu Picchu being abandoned is

Solution

Similar Questions

Upgrade your grade with Knowee