Why might the lifespan of a Maya city have varied?

The lifespan of a Maya city varied due to factors such as environmental changes, resource availability, and socio-political dynamics. Deforestation and soil degradation from intensive agriculture could lead to food shortages, while prolonged droughts could exacerbate these issues. Additionally, internal conflicts, warfare, and shifts in trade routes could disrupt stability and contribute to the decline of a city. Cultural shifts and changes in leadership also played roles in determining whether a city thrived or faded.