Mississippian City Cahokia

Cahokia was a large Mississippian city located in present-day Illinois. It was one of the largest cities in North America at the time of its peak, with a population of up to 40,000 people. Cahokia was founded around 700 CE and reached its peak of power and influence in the 12th century. The city declined in the 14th century and was abandoned by the 16th century.

The Mississippians were a Native American culture that flourished in the southeastern United States from about 800 to 1600 CE. They were known for their complex societies, which included large cities, sophisticated architecture, and a system of government.

Factors of the Rise

The rise of Cahokia was due to a number of factors, including its location on the Mississippi River, its fertile soil, and its access to trade routes. The city was also home to a number of skilled artisans and craftsmen, who produced a variety of goods, including pottery, jewellery, and weapons.

Cahokia was a major centre of religious and political power. The city was home to a number of large mounds, including Monks Mound, which is the largest prehistoric earthwork in North America. Monks Mound is believed to have been a temple or palace, and it is thought that the rulers of Cahokia lived on top of the mound.

Cahokia was also a major centre of trade. The city traded with other Mississippian cultures, as well as with cultures in the Southwest and Mexico. Cahokia was a major source of copper, which was used to make jewellery and other objects.

Decline Theories

The decline of Cahokia is a mystery. There are a number of theories about why the city declined, including warfare, disease, and environmental change. However, the exact cause of the decline is unknown.

The abandonment of Cahokia was a major event in the history of the Mississippian culture. The city’s decline led to a decline in the power and influence of the Mississippians. However, the Mississippians left a legacy on the Native American peoples of the southeastern United States. Their culture influenced the development of later cultures, such as the Cherokee, Creek, and Choctaw.

Conclusion

The story of Cahokia is a story of rise and fall. The city rose to prominence in the 12th century, becoming one of the largest and most powerful cities in North America. However, the city declined in the 14th century, and was abandoned by the 16th century.

There are many mysteries surrounding Cahokia. The exact cause of the city’s decline is unknown, and the fate of its inhabitants is a mystery. However, the city’s ruins still stand today, and they provide a glimpse into a lost world.

Cahokia is a reminder of the power and sophistication of the Mississippian culture. The city’s ruins are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its inhabitants. Cahokia is a place of mystery and wonder, and it is a place that continues to fascinate and intrigue people today.

References

– Fowler, Melvin L. 1997. The Cahokia Mounds: Ancient America’s Great Metropolis. University of Illinois Press.
– Pauketat, Timothy R. 2004. Ancient Cahokia and the Mississippians. Cambridge University Press.

Tags