Olmec Civilization
The Olmecs were an early American Civilization that came to be around 2500 BCE and lasted until 400 BCE. They were located in what is modern day Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula, an area the Aztecs and the Maya would later inhabit. Unlike most other early societies, the Olmec were not based around a river valley. Nevertheless, Olmec society developed into one characteristic of early civilizations, employing cities, trade, large-scale architecture, and scientific and artistic advances.
The Olmec were located in modern day Mexico and their cultural influence spread in Central America.
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A very popular medium of Olmec art was sculpture, specifically heads of their rulers, such as the one shown above.
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Chavin Civilization
The Chavin, religiously, socially, and politically, were very similar to the Olmecs. However, they were located near modern day Peru, a land that would be inhabited by the Inca in the future. The Chavin originated around 900 BCE and lasted until 250 BCE, slightly later than the Olmecs. The Chavin were not based around a river valley, but an ocean. This would be reflected by much of their culture. Chavin advancements were very similar to those of the Olmecs and most other civilizations. However, the Chavin enforced a strongly centralized rule. Long distance trade was another trademark of this society.
The Chavin were located along the coast of modern day Peru.
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The Chavin ruins at Chavin de Huantar, the capital of the Chavin civilization.
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