Thousands of years ago, people settled in the part of the world called Mesoamerica. This region consists of southern Mexico and most of Central America as it stretches between what is now called the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean. Although many different countries now exist within this space, it was the original home to just one civilisation: the Olmec. As time advanced, other well-known groups became dominant in the area. These were primarily the Aztecs and the Mayan. All these early civilizations that existed from approximately 1200 BCE to 900 CE were steeped with culture, tradition, commerce, and conflict. They also offer many mysteries and enigmas to modern understanding. These are the things that make people wonder about how the civilisations arose, gained such power, and why they disappeared. Travel back in time to the first days to discover the questions that still exist in the minds of archaeologists, historians, and others who strive to understand the ancient mysteries of Mesoamerica.

Mayan ideas spread via broadcast and influenced divergent cultures and languages. It is possible to trace the influence of the Mayan civilization far beyond its confines (400 to 600 A.D.). One or two of these lesser civilizations may have existed contemporaneously with the great Mayan civilization, but most were at their best long after the great culture had declined. This chapter will emphasize the ties between these lesser civilizations and the Mayas and analyze their characteristics. Toward Mexico and the Isthmus of Panama, we will proceed northwest. Along the Gulf of Mexico and across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, the Mayas developed their arts of life in narrowing bands. In terms of importance, Comalcalco appears to be the most westerly Mayan city. A large ruin is also located near San Andres Tuxtla, and the Tuxtla Statuette is among the earliest dated Maya objects. Archaic and Maya figurines coexist in this coastal belt, where arid and humid conditions coexist. Mayan culture may have originated here. Little has been studied on the archaeology of this part of Mexico. Although the earliest known rubber specimens were found at Chichen Itza's Sacred Cenote, the material's ceremonial and practical uses are primarily related to the Olmeca and Totonac cultures. In southern Vera Cruz and western Tabasco, where the Aztecs later called Nonoalco, the Olmeca may be found. Ancient Mexican traditions frequently mention this region as a symbol of Maya civilization. Incense, water-proofing, drumstick tips, etc., were all made from rubber. There was also a sacred game played with a large rubber ball, with goals set high in parallel walls of a specially constructed court, which could be compared to basketball. Olmeca may have been a Mayan tribe, but they may also have spoken Mexican. The Olmeca ruled parts of the Mexican highlands before the Toltecs, according to Ixtlilxochitl's history. When the Toltec empire collapsed, they may have fled south, for we find a group of this name in Nicaragua at the time of the Conquest.

Mayan ideas spread via broadcast and influenced divergent cultures and languages. It is possible to trace the influence of the Mayan civilization far beyond its confines (400 to 600 A.D.). One or two of these lesser civilizations may have existed contemporaneously with the great Mayan civilization, but most were at their best long after the great culture had declined. This chapter will emphasize the ties between these lesser civilizations and the Mayas and analyze their characteristics. Toward Mexico and the Isthmus of Panama, we will proceed northwest. Along the Gulf of Mexico and across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, the Mayas developed their arts of life in narrowing bands. In terms of importance, Comalcalco appears to be the most westerly Mayan city. A large ruin is also located near San Andres Tuxtla, and the Tuxtla Statuette is among the earliest dated Maya objects. Archaic and Maya figurines coexist in this coastal belt, where arid and humid conditions coexist. Mayan culture may have originated here. Little has been studied on the archaeology of this part of Mexico. Although the earliest known rubber specimens were found at Chichen Itza's Sacred Cenote, the material's ceremonial and practical uses are primarily related to the Olmeca and Totonac cultures. In southern Vera Cruz and western Tabasco, where the Aztecs later called Nonoalco, the Olmeca may be found. Ancient Mexican traditions frequently mention this region as a symbol of Maya civilization. Incense, water-proofing, drumstick tips, etc., were all made from rubber. There was also a sacred game played with a large rubber ball, with goals set high in parallel walls of a specially constructed court, which could be compared to basketball. Olmeca may have been a Mayan tribe, but they may also have spoken Mexican. The Olmeca ruled parts of the Mexican highlands before the Toltecs, according to Ixtlilxochitl's history. When the Toltec empire collapsed, they may have fled south, for we find a group of this name in Nicaragua at the time of the Conquest.

Lost Cities author Childress takes us deep into Mexico and Central America in search of the mysterious Olmecs, North America’s early, advanced civilization. The Olmecs, now sometimes called Proto-Mayans, were not acknowledged to have existed as a civilization until an international archeological meeting in Mexico City in 1942. Now, the Olmecs are slowly being recognized as the Mother Culture of Mesoamerica, having invented writing, the ball game and the “Mayan” Calendar. But who were the Olmecs? Where did they come from? What happened to them? How sophisticated was their culture? How far back in time did it go? Why are many Olmec statues and figurines seemingly of foreign peoples such as Africans, Europeans and Chinese? Is there a link with Atlantis? In this heavily illustrated book, join Childress in search of the lost cities of the Olmecs! Chapters include: The Mystery of the Origin of the Olmecs; The Mystery of the Olmec Destruction; The Mystery of Quizuo; The Mystery of Transoceanic Trade; The Mystery of Cranial Deformation; The Mystery of Olmec Writing; more. Heavily illustrated, includes a color photo section.

The history of Mesoamerica is rich, complex, and filled with mystery But for too long it has been misrepresented, misunderstood, and overlooked. Embark on a Journey of Discovery through Mesoamerican History, Culture, Mythology, and Beyond But be warned, this book is not for the faint of heart. Inside you'll gain insight into rituals, sacrifices, and societal structures that may challenge your preconceived notions…Nevertheless, if you can handle it, reading it will be an eye-opening experience that leaves you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich heritage of Mesoamerica. We'll educate you about the Olmec civilization, the Zapotecs, the Mayans, the Aztecs, the Incas, and more. You'll discover their communication with the spirit world, their religion, architecture, agriculture, medicine, society and history. All of this and much more including: Timeline of Mesoamerican History, Major Periods & Civilizations The Spanish Conquest - Hernán Cortés & the Fall of the Aztecs The 2012 Apocalypse Myth + Mayan Astronomy Uncovered Myths, Creation Stories & Tales including The Popol Vuh, The Creation of the World and many more Tracing the Cultural and Religious Importance of Chocolate from Ancient Mesoamerican Civilizations to Modern Times Exploring the Impact of Indigenous Peoples on Architecture, Agriculture, and Medicine. The Marvels of Machu Picchu & How the Incan Empire Came to Be Unveiling the Aztecs' Expertise in Warfare: Insights into the Life of Aztec Soldiers and their Preparations for Battle. How the Zapatista Movement in Mexico is Empowering Indigenous Voices and Transforming Education in the Modern World. And much, much more… Whether you're a history enthusiast or a curious reader...inside you will discover all you need to know about the true story of Mesoamerican History & Mythology. So if you want to find out more then this is The Book for You.

The Olmec language and Teotihuacan language are still outside this preliminary classification: the ones represented by the Olmec area and those of Teotihuacan, which are currently being studied and discovered. Though it is still difficult to prove, there is some probability that the Olmec language preceded Totonac. In contrast, it is more specific than the writings and speech of Teotihuacan, which led to Nahua's development. The Mexican population that migrated to Nicaragua later spread this language in its various variants throughout the central Valley of Mexico, even reaching the south of Mesoamerica, to Nicaragua. During the destruction and abandonment of Teotihuacan around 600, the written system of their successors, the Toltecs, was lost but may have been revived later in Aztec ideographic writing.

In 'The Mythology of Mayas, Aztecs and Incas' by Lewis Spence, readers are taken on a captivating exploration of the intricate belief systems and mythical tales of these ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. Spence delves into the rich tapestry of gods, heroes, and cosmological narratives that shaped the spiritual outlook of the Mayas, Aztecs, and Incas. His scholarly approach not only provides a comprehensive overview of the mythologies but also offers insights into the cultural and historical contexts that influenced them. Written in a lucid and engaging style, this book serves as an indispensable guide to understanding the symbolic universe of these fascinating civilizations. Spence skillfully weaves together archaeological evidence, historical accounts, and comparative analysis to unravel the complex mythological traditions of the Mayas, Aztecs, and Incas. Lewis Spence, a renowned Scottish folklorist and scholar of mythology, brings his expertise to bear in this illuminating study. His passion for unearthing the hidden meanings behind ancient myths shines through in the meticulous research and meticulous attention to detail displayed in this work. Whether you are a student of Mesoamerican cultures, a mythology enthusiast, or simply a curious reader seeking to dive into the mysteries of the past, 'The Mythology of Mayas, Aztecs and Incas' is a must-read that will enrich your understanding of these enigmatic civilizations.