Question

What does Olmec mean?

Answer 1

Olmec refers to an ancient Mesoamerican civilization that thrived in what is now modern-day Mexico from around 1600 BCE to 400 BCE. The term "Olmec" is derived from the Nahuatl word "Ōlmēcah" which means "rubber people" or "rubber men." This name was given to the Olmec by the Aztecs, as they discovered ancient ruins with stone sculptures featuring figures wearing suits made from rubber. However, the Olmec people did not refer to themselves as Olmec, and their true name remains unknown. The Olmec civilization is renowned for their advanced art, architecture, and other cultural practices, and they are considered to be a significant influence on later civilizations, such as the Maya and Aztec.