1. The First Civilization in the Western Hemisphere
The Olmecs
The First Civilization in the Western Hemisphere

2. Migration to the Americas
From 30,000-10,000 years ago, the world was experiencing the last major ice age. Much of the northern hemisphere was covered in large sheets of ice called glaciers.
The water that now occupy the area known as the Bering Strait receded, creating a land bridge.
Asian hunters followed their game across the land bridge into North America.

3. What is Civilization?
A civilization is defined as a society with: 1. A social hierarchy
2. An established communication or writing system
3. Dominance over the natural environment
Can you name some ancient civilizations not located in North America that fit the definition above?

4. The 1st Civilization in the Americas
Olmecs- Existed from 1500 BCE to 400 CE
Civilization centered around the Southern Mexican Peninsula
Though the Olmecs were not the first settlers in the Americas, they were the first major civilization and set precedents for later groups.

5. Advancements
Olmec writing systems date back to 900 BCE (Before Common Era)
Cascajal Block- oldest writing system in the New World (see right)
Though many other Mesoamerican civilizations had intricate calendars, the Olmecs are generally credited with creating the first Long Count Calendar which was highly accurate (See left)
Developed the concept of zero

6. More Advancements
Art- The availability of jade was used in art and was traded throughout Olmec civilization
Sport- Ōllamaliztli, played with a rubber ball and is similar to racquetball today
Bloodletting-The ritual practice of cutting or piercing one’s body as a means to praise the God’s and to renew life.

7. Colossal Heads
Weighted between 6 and 50 tons!

8. The End of the Olmecs
The Olmecs began to decline during the middle of the first millennia CE (Common Era)
The exact reason as to why Olmec civilization declined is not exactly known
Most researchers believe it was because of stronger civilizations gaining power and took over the region
Despite their disappearance, the Olmecs were the first major North American civilization and contributed many important cultural practices that later societies would adopt

9. Quick Quiz Name 3 contributions made by the Olmecs.
Approximately when did Olmec society exist from?
The identifiable form of Olmec art is ____________.