The Olmec civilization was Mesoamerica's foundational "mother culture," flourishing in south-central Mexico from approximately 1500 to 400 BCE. They established a cultural framework for later empires, including the Maya and Aztecs, by developing innovations like an early writing system, complex calendars, and extensive trade networks.

Among the Olmec's most significant achievements are the colossal stone heads. These massive portraits of rulers were carved from volcanic basalt and transported over 90 miles without wheeled transport. The Olmec also invented the ritualistic Mesoamerican ballgame, producing the world's first rubber balls for it, and were one of the first cultures to process cacao into a ceremonial chocolate beverage. The civilization's decline around 400 BCE remains an unsolved mystery.

Related Episode: Fun Facts About Chocolate

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