- The Olmec civilization was considered the first major civilization of Mesoamerica, originating in the tropical lowlands of southern Mexico.
- They flourished during the Preclassical period, from around 1200 to 400 BC.
- The Olmecs are best known for their colossal stone heads, which represent some of the earliest examples of monumental sculpture in the Americas.
The Maya
- The Maya civilization was one of the most advanced civilizations of ancient America, known for its impressive achievements in architecture, hieroglyphic writing, and astronomy.
- They inhabited a large region that encompassed parts of present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras.
- The Maya civilization flourished during the Classical period, from around 250 to 900 AD, and reached its peak around the 7th century AD.
The Zapotec
- The Zapotec civilization flourished in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca.
- They were known for their complex political systems, impressive architecture, and sophisticated art and writing systems.
- Zapotec culture and influence spanned over several periods, from the Preclassical period (around 1500 BC) to the Postclassical period (around 900-1500 AD)
The Mixtec
- The Mixtec civilization was an indigenous people of Mesoamerica that flourished in the present-day Mexican state of Oaxaca, along with parts of Guerrero and Puebla.
- They were known for their elaborate codex manuscripts and their intricate goldsmithing.
- The Mixtec culture and influence extended from the Postclassic period until the Spanish conquest.
