Final answer:
The cultural core of early Olmec civilization was located in the cities of San Lorenzo, La Venta, and Tres Zapotes, with La Venta being the most prominent. These cities featured impressive architectural and artistic achievements, and the Olmecs' cultural practices and innovations greatly influenced later Mesoamerican civilizations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Early Olmec Civilization and Its Cultural Core
The cultural core of early Olmec civilization was centered around three significant cities: San Lorenzo, La Venta, and Tres Zapotes. These cities were instrumental in the development of the Olmec's complex society, which began around 1500 BCE and declined around 400 BCE. La Venta, in particular, became the most prominent of the Olmec centers, serving as the focal point for the culture's government, religious activities, and trade networks. The Olmec civilization is renowned for its monumental sculptures, such as the giant head sculptures made from volcanic basalt, as well as architectural marvels like step pyramids and sophisticated water management systems including aqueducts. The subsistence of the Olmec people was based on agriculture, growing crops like maize, squash, beans, and tomatoes, and they also domesticated small dogs for protein. As a 'mother culture,' the Olmecs had a far-reaching influence on subsequent Mesoamerican civilizations including the Maya and Aztecs, which can be seen in shared aspects like religious deities, art, and ball games.