The Americas’ first inhabitants developed the basis for later American civilizations.

 What 2 continents does the Beringia land bridge connect?  Asia and North America  From where do scholars believe the first Americans came? How did they come?  From Asia, they traveled across either the Beringia land bridge or the Pacific Ocean.

 THE OLMEC CIVILIZATION – The “mother culture”

 Origin:  Oaxaca Valley  Capital of their home:  Monte Albán

 The Olmec  Art can be seen in many pottery & sculptures of later civilizations.  Urban design  The Zapotec  First city builders  Writing system & calendar

 As Mesoamerican civilizations flourished, 3 others were also developing further down in South America. These 3 civilizations were:  Chavín  Nazca  Moche

 Considered the “mother culture” for South America.  Religious organization

 Accomplishments  Nazca Lines  Irrigation systems  Beautiful textiles and pottery

 Known for enormous wealth  Enjoyed a balanced diet: fish, game, & variety of crops grown