Communication
The Olmec of the Gulf Coast of what is now Mexico become the "mother civilization" of Mesoamerica (Central America and what is now Mexico). In particular, they bequeath a numeration system and calendar that they devise, as well as the beginnings of written language, to the Maya. Later the Aztec use a simplified form of the calendar. The first signs of a written Olmec language, a large cylindrical seal and a broken jade plaque, date from this time. See also 3114 bce Astronomy.
TransportationAn unknown Greek naval architect designs a ship with a lateral projection above the gunwale that provides room for a third bank of oars. The result, called a trireme, becomes the common military vessel throughout the early classic period. Because it has three banks of oars, providing for 170 rowers in all, instead of two banks, but is otherwise the same length and breadth, the trireme is both speedier and more maneuverable than naval vessels that preceded it. Some sources claim the trireme was invented in 704 bce by Ameinokles of Corinth, but this seems to be too early. See also 700 bce Transportation.
