in what ways did the Olmec civilization influence other civilzations in the Americas? (1 point)

The Olmec civilization, often considered one of the earliest Mesoamerican civilizations, had a significant influence on later cultures in the Americas in several ways:

1. **Art and Iconography**: The Olmecs are known for their distinctive art, including colossal heads and jade sculptures. These artistic styles and symbols were adopted and adapted by later civilizations, such as the Maya and the Aztecs, influencing their artistic expressions and religious iconography.

2. **Religious and Ritual Practices**: The Olmecs laid the groundwork for Mesoamerican religious practices, including the concepts of shamanism and the importance of deities related to agriculture and fertility. These religious beliefs were integrated into the practices of subsequent cultures throughout Mesoamerica.

3. **Urban Planning and Architecture**: The Olmec civilization developed some of the earliest urban centers in Mesoamerica, such as San Lorenzo and La Venta, which featured ceremonial plazas and complex layouts. This influenced the urban designs of later civilizations, promoting the development of cities with similar structures and organization.

4. **Writing and Calendar Systems**: While the Olmec writing system is not fully deciphered, it is believed to have influenced the development of writing and calendrical systems used by later cultures, contributing to the rich tradition of record-keeping and timekeeping in Mesoamerica.

Overall, the Olmec civilization served as a foundational culture that shaped various aspects of social, political, and artistic life among subsequent civilizations in the Americas.