What evidence exists for the political organization and social stratification of Maya civilization in Belize? How did centers of power and authority shift over time in this part of the Maya world?

The Maya civilization in Belize was highly organized and socially stratified, as evidenced by various archaeological findings and historical records.

1. Political Organization: The political organization of the Maya civilization in Belize was characterized by city-states, each with its own ruler or 'ajaw'. Evidence for this comes from inscriptions found on stelae (stone monuments), which often depict rulers and record their deeds. For instance, the site of Caracol is known to have been a major political center, with its rulers engaging in warfare and alliances with other Maya cities.

2. Social Stratification: The social stratification of the Maya civilization is evident in the differential distribution of resources and the architecture of the cities. For example, large and elaborate structures such as palaces and temples were typically reserved for the elite, while commoners lived in smaller, simpler houses. Additionally, burial practices also indicate social stratification, with elites often buried with rich grave goods.

3. Shifts in Power and Authority: Over time, there were shifts in power and authority within the Maya civilization in Belize. These shifts are often associated with periods of warfare, population movement, and environmental change. For example, the decline of the city of Caracol around the 10th century AD coincided with the rise of the city of Lamanai. This suggests a shift in power from one city to another.

In conclusion, the evidence for the political organization and social stratification of the Maya civilization in Belize is abundant and varied, ranging from architectural and archaeological evidence to inscriptions and burial practices. The shifts in power and authority over time are also well-documented, reflecting the dynamic nature of this ancient civilization.