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Abstract
A high-resolution paleoclimate record spanning 695 years (495-1190 cal yr BP [760-1455 AD]) was created from BZBT1, a 92 mm stalagmite from the Cayo District, Belize. A novel method of dating organic material trapped within the stalagmite was used to determine the chronology of stalagmite growth. Multiple proxies from BZBT1 provided evidence for climate changes during the growth period, with the best records obtained from stable isotopes and petrographic analysis. The region experienced a generalized climate pattern of dry-wet-dry conditions beginning around 1080 cal yr BP (870 AD) and extending through the final growth of BZBT1. The initial dry period corresponds to times of decline and abandonment for the Classic Maya civilization. The findings of this study match well with other regional and world climate records and contribute more evidence suggesting adverse climate played a role in the decline of Classical Maya civilization.