A comparative approach to the socio-political and socio-economic organization of the intensive terrace farming at the ancient Maya centre of Minanha, Belize

This thesis investigates the socio-political and socio-economic organization behind the relic agricultural terrace systems that surround the ancient Maya center of Minanha, Belize. A comparative approach is employed, using case studies representative of three different forms of organization. The Inka represent centralized organization. Decentralized organization is demonstrated by the Nyanga complex of Eastern Zimbabwe. Heterarchical organization is exemplified by the Balinese example. Each case study involves intensive hillside terrace farming. Examining the physical characteristics of these systems has provided in-sight into their socio-political and socio-economic organization. These qualities are compared to the Minanha terrace systems for their similarities and differences to uncover which organization is most similar. In addition to the comparative assessment, the thesis also involves the use of fractal analysis to explore the spatial organization of both the terraces, and associated settlement distribution.;Keywords: ancient Maya, socio-political and socio-economic organization of intensive agricultural production, terrace farming, settlement pattern, agricultural intensification, Inka, Nyanga, Balinese.