Turns out the ancient Maya were living large—like, way larger than we thought. New research says their civilization peaked at 16 million people, which is double NYC’s population today! Even cooler: their cities and rural areas were super connected, not just scattered villages. Lasers (yep, lasers!) helped scientists map out thousands of hidden buildings, showing the Maya were organized and advanced way beyond what we learned in school. Imagine the parties in those plazas! #History #MayaCivilization #HistoryNerd