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The Olmec: Pioneers of Mesoamerican Civilization in Central America

The Olmec civilization flourished from 1300 to 400 BC, pioneering the first cities in Mexico and creating monumental architecture, including early pyramids and iconic carved stone heads. Known as the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica, they developed a hierarchical society centered on agriculture, worshipping various gods such as the Jaguar and Corn Gods. They were the first to establish religious centers like San Lorenzo and La Venta and utilized extensive river systems for trade and transportation. Their influence shaped subsequent Mesoamerican cultures, leaving a lasting legacy.

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The Olmec: Pioneers of Mesoamerican Civilization in Central America

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  1. The Olmec The First Mesoamerican Civilization(Central America)

  2. The Olmec Origins • The Olmec existed between 1300 – 400 BC • Considered the mother culture which built first cities in Mexico • Built some of first known pyramids and large-scale carved stone

  3. The Olmec Origins • Olmeca means “people of rubber country”. • Rubber was a well established commodity in the region which initiated the name. • Built a religious centre in San Lorenzo which was destroyed in 900 BC • Another was built in La Venta, including a 30m high pyramid

  4. The Olmec Location

  5. The Olmec Origins • Evidence of the civilization discovered in 1862 • Acceptance of the pre-Mayan civilization not until 1955 • San Lorenzo, Mexico - identified first known sacred mountain

  6. San Lorenzo, Mexico • Used criss-cross river system for transportation • Was the largest known centre of that time • Ball games and courts were prevalent in this society

  7. The Olmec Society • A basic hierarchal society with distinct levels • Priests and rulers were at the top • Labourers (craftsmen, farmers) at the bottom • Worshipped several gods i.e. Jaguar and Corn Gods

  8. The Olmec Society • While grandeur was respected, farming was it’s lifeblood. • Farmed on frequently flooded land • Built up land to avoid flooded homes • Land was so fertile because of flooding they could grow two sets of crops per year

  9. The Olmec Heads • Famous among archeology • Average 3 metres – 20 tonnes • Carved from basalt transported 70 km

  10. The End of The Olmec • Phenomenon of sophisticated architecture, monumental carvings and complex artwork started with The Olmec • pre-Olmec ideology was defined by physical examples which had never been done. • Influenced all civilizations throughout Mesoamerica and South America. • Trade and migration dissolved them into varying civilizations ~ 400 BC

  11. The Olmec The First Mesoamerican Civilization(Central America)

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