The series breaks down the demise of four major civilizations:
Deforestation for fuel or building materials leads to soil erosion and the permanent loss of arable land. 4. Societal Fragility
Failure of crops leads to famine, which triggers social unrest and the loss of faith in leaders who "controlled" the gods of nature. 2. Geological Catastrophes
Investigates the catastrophic volcanic eruption of Thera (Santorini) and the subsequent tsunamis that devastated the maritime power of Crete.
Explores how a prolonged, severe megadrought in the 9th century crippled agricultural systems, leading to the abandonment of great cities like Tikal.