Olmec man and woman in their distinctive attire from the Preclassic period (circa 1400 BCE).

The Olmec civilization, one of the earliest in Mesoamerica, thrived in the tropical lowlands of what is now Mexico from around 1400 BCE to 400 BCE. Known for colossal stone heads carved with exquisite detail, the Olmecs developed complex societies. They were skilled in agriculture, creating fertile lands using a system of raised fields and irrigation. The Olmecs traded goods like jade and obsidian and left a legacy of sophisticated art, including intricate carvings and pottery. Their religious beliefs, featuring jaguar and feathered serpent deities, influenced later Mesoamerican cultures. While the Olmec civilization eventually declined, its contributions to Mesoamerican art and culture were foundational. It served as a cultural predecessor to civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs, shaping the rich tapestry of Mesoamerican history.