The cultures that existed in Mesoamerica prior to the rise of the Mayans include the Olmec and the Teotihuacan civilizations.
The Olmec, often regarded as the “mother culture” of Mesoamerica, thrived from approximately 1400 to 400 BCE. They are known for their colossal stone heads and significant advancements in arts, architecture, and urban planning. The Olmec laid important cultural foundations that influenced later civilizations, including the Mayans.
Another significant precursor to the Mayans was the Teotihuacan civilization, which reached its peak around 100 to 650 CE. Located near present-day Mexico City, Teotihuacan was a large urban center known for its massive pyramids, such as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. The Teotihuacan civilization played a crucial role in trade, culture, and the spread of ideas across Mesoamerica, influencing the surrounding regions, including the Mayan territories.
In summary, the Olmec and Teotihuacan civilizations were the prominent cultures that came before the Mayans, laying the groundwork for the complex society that the Mayans would later develop.