The ancient Casarabe society, spanning an impressive 4,500 square kilometers in what is now northern Bolivia, thrived between 500 and 1400 AD. Nestled in the Amazonian savannas and forests, this society developed sophisticated agricultural techniques that transformed the landscape into a maize-production powerhouse. By cultivating maize on a large scale during both rainy and dry seasons, the Casarabe people supported an expanding urban sprawl and a growing population.
The Casarabe society had access to a variety of foods, including starchy tubers, squash, peanuts, yams, and most notably, maize. Despite no evidence of traditional agricultural fields, the society's innovative use of a network of drainage canals and water-storing ponds facilitated year-round maize farming. This system enabled the Casarabe to harvest maize twice annually, ensuring a stable food supply even as environmental pressures mounted.
"As the population grew and environmental pressures increased, perhaps they looked for more reliable and stable sources of proteins," – Umberto Lombardo.
The well-developed drainage system and water-storing ponds are key to understanding the Casarabe's agricultural success. The ponds, used from around 1250 to 1550 according to radiocarbon dating, played a crucial role in their farming strategy. Although the exact age of the drainage system remains unknown, its sophistication allowed the Casarabe to utilize the land efficiently throughout the year.
This strategic adaptation not only provided a reliable source of food but also supported a substantial population. The abundance of maize and other crops led to the development of new agricultural systems as the society expanded. These advancements highlight the Casarabe's ability to respond to increasing environmental challenges while sustaining their urban growth.
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