4. Religion and beliefs - The majority of the Khmer empire are people who follows the Khmer style of Buddhism, which blends the elements of Hinduism, Buddhism and spirit worship. The Angkor rulers also adopted its idea of god-kings, in which the kings were an incarnation of Shiva, a Hindu god who was known as the protector. -The Khmer Empire was formed from Indian cultural influences. Religion and beliefs were practiced in temples. In Angkor ancient kings built more than 700 temples. The largest temple was Angkor Wat. It covers 500 acres and is known as one of the largest monuments that was ever built. R.C. Period 1
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9. Failures in Irrigation Systems : ¹In some irrigation systems, the water may have become stagnant in some places and there would be a disease outbreak (i.e. malaria). ²Irrigation systems may have been different due to the shifts in monsoon patterns and therefore disrupted the normal water management system during the 14th/15th century. *There was a delicate balance between the reservoirs and irrigation canals and even the slightest disruption could have damaged something and have broken down the balance which added to the empire’s decline. Climate Changes : Abnormal climate changes could have occurred and upset the irrigation systems. Methane emissions from rice fields can alter climate conditions significantly. Irregular monsoon patterns could lead to droughts, famine, and infectious disease. Environmental Issues Continued Ancient Khmer Irrigation system (dry). A.S. Period 1