Early Civilizations in the Americas - Video Activity

Which civilization covers the most area?

• Mississippian

• Olmec

• Maya

• Caral

Which civilization had territory touching both the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans?

• Mississippian

• Olmec

• Maya

• Caral

Which is the oldest civilization?

• Mississippian

• Olmec

• Maya

• Caral

Which civilization lasted the longest number of years?

• Mississippian

• Olmec

• Maya

• Caral

Which civilization lasted the shortest number of years?

• Mississippian

• Olmec

• Maya

• Caral

Which is the only civilization in South America?

• Mississippian

• Olmec

• Maya

• Caral

We believe that the colossal heads discovered at La Venta are most likely evidence of a culture that relied on

• dance and music to entertain the masses.

• strong and powerful rulers.

• facial expressions for communication.

I think that plazas, with their carefully aligned basalt columns, were evidence of the Olmec’s advanced knowledge of

• astronomy.

• government.

• warfare.

The carefully-carved Olmec jade masks and figurines we examined were most likely evidence of

• religious rituals.

• agriculture.

• trade.

We believe the main function of the pyramids at Tikal was to

• place scouts to keep a lookout for enemies.

• perform ceremonies honoring the gods.

• watch over fields of corn, beans, and squash.