The Olmec civilization, often regarded as the 'mother culture' of Mesoamerica, thrived from around 1200 to 400 BCE in present-day Mexico. Known for their colossal stone heads and intricate jade carvings, the Olmecs laid the groundwork for future civilizations such as the Maya and Aztec. Their society was marked by advanced agricultural practices and a complex social structure. Olmec culture is characterized by its rich mythology and religious practices, which included the worship of deities represented in their art. The Olmecs also developed one of the earliest known writing systems in the Americas, influencing subsequent cultures in the region.