They were linked together because The Olmec was usually called mother-culture
Olmec
Olmec was the "mother" culture of Mesoamerica. Many aspects of their culture such as gods, glyphic writing and artistic forms became parts of later civilizations such as the Maya and Aztecs.
They were both like mother cultures for civilizations that came after them.
It appears that because many groups of Native peoples learned from the Olmec civilization and they ways of life, building, education and establishment of a "civilization , they were called the "mother civilization" of the Americas.
They are called mother civilization because the invented writing.
It is because they were the first ones who invented writing.
The Olmec as well as Teotihuacans are considered as such.
the Olmec culture spread by trade centerso
olmec
the Olmec culture spread by trade centerso
:) smile
The Olmec civilization, often considered the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica, remains somewhat enigmatic due to limited written records and archaeological evidence. Their society flourished from around 1400 to 400 BCE, but much of their history relies on interpretations of artifacts, such as colossal stone heads and other sculptures. Additionally, the Olmec did not leave behind extensive texts or codices, making it challenging for researchers to piece together their culture, beliefs, and social structure. Consequently, many aspects of Olmec life remain speculative and open to interpretation.