For over 150 years the developments in the Terminal Classic period in the Maya lowlands are studied. There is still no general consensus on the reason of the decline in the southern part and the...Show moreFor over 150 years the developments in the Terminal Classic period in the Maya lowlands are studied. There is still no general consensus on the reason of the decline in the southern part and the transformation in the northern part. The once accepted “collapse” of the Classic Maya civilization is now only argued for by few. The Terminal Classic in the Maya lowlands is perceived as a period of grave changes, transitions, transformations and continuity. Few settlements did experience abrupt total collapse. There is a large variety of causes that are argued to be of influence to the decline. Assessing the contemporary discussion, several key issues arise. There is no consensus on what terms should be used to describe these events as well as the relativity of labeling short and long scale developments is under discussion. Finally the very essence of what is studied here, is human behaviour. The reaction of the Classic Maya to changing situations or resilience, whether in the socio-political system or to climate changes, is paramount in the study of the Terminal Classic.Show less