Mesoamerican societies

Who were the Olmec?

The Olmec were the first major civilization in Mexico.

Where were the Olmecs located?

They lived in southern Mexico, along the coast, in the tropical lowlands, just north of the Yucatan.

What type of climate and land did they have at that location?

They lived in the tropical (hot & humid) and coastal lowlands rainforest along the Gulf of Mexico.

When did the Olmec civilization exist?

The Olmec civilization existed from around 1500 BCE to 400 BCE.

What is the significance of the Olmec civilization?

The Olmec are considered the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica. They influenced later civilizations such as the Maya and the Aztec.

What were the major Olmec achievements?

The Olmec are known for their impressive stone sculptures, especially the colossal heads.

When did the Olmec civilization exist?

The Olmec civilization existed from around 1500 BCE to 400 BCE.

What is the significance of the Olmec civilization?

The Olmec are considered the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica. They influenced later civilizations such as the Maya and the Aztec.

What were the major Olmec achievements?

The Olmec are known for their impressive stone sculptures, especially the colossal heads. They also developed a writing system, a calendar, and a number system.

What was the Olmec economy based on?

The Olmec economy was based on agriculture. They grew crops such as corn, beans, and squash. They also traded with other cultures.

What was Olmec society like?

Olmec society was hierarchical, with a ruling class of priests and warriors. Most people were farmers.

What was the religion of the Olmec?

The Olmec religion was polytheistic. They worshipped gods associated with nature, such as rain, the sun, and maize. They also practiced ritual sacrifice.