How did centers of power and authority shift over time in this part of the Maya world?

The shift of power and authority in the Maya world is a complex process that occurred over centuries. Here is a simplified step-by-step explanation:

1. Preclassic Period (2000 BC - AD 250): During this period, the Maya civilization was primarily agrarian, with power likely held by chieftains or elders within individual communities. The centers of power were scattered and localized.

2. Classic Period (AD 250 - 900): This period saw the rise of city-states like Tikal, Calakmul, and Caracol. Power was centralized in these cities, with a ruling class of nobles and a king (or "ajaw") at the top. The shift of power during this period was often due to warfare, alliances, and trade relationships between city-states.

3. Terminal Classic Period (AD 800 - 1000): Towards the end of the Classic period, many of the major city-states experienced a decline, often referred to as the "Maya Collapse". This led to a shift in power towards the Northern Yucatan, with cities like Uxmal and Chichen Itza becoming prominent.

4. Postclassic Period (AD 1000 - 1500): During this period, power shifted again, this time to the coastal city of Mayapan. However, by the late Postclassic, power was becoming increasingly decentralized, with numerous smaller city-states gaining prominence.

5. Spanish Conquest (16th Century): The final major shift in power occurred with the arrival of the Spanish, who gradually subjugated the Maya city-states and established colonial rule.

In conclusion, the centers of power and authority in the Maya world shifted over time due to a variety of factors, including warfare, trade, environmental changes, and external invasions.