Cahokia: Urbanization, Metabolism, and Collapse

Cahokia, the largest pre-Columbian city north of Mexico, experienced a dramatic collapse in the 12th century A.D. that left its sustaining region abandoned for centuries. Research suggests environmental degradation, likely due to intensive societal metabolism and public works, rendered the area unsuitable for settlement. The study examines key factors such as urbanization trends, elite growth, rural population dynamics, and environmental changes in the American Bottom to understand Cahokia's decline. By analyzing these interconnected elements, the research provides insights into the fragility of complex societies facing resource strain.

Tainter, J. A. (2019). Cahokia: Urbanization, Metabolism, and Collapse. Frontiers in Sustainable Cities, 1. https://doi.org/10.3389/frsc.2019.00006