Final answer:
The Chavín culture is responsible for the start of the Early Horizon period in South America, beginning around 900 BCE and known for its distinctive pottery and religious traditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The South American culture that gave birth to the Early Horizon period was the Chavín culture. This culture began expanding around 900 BCE, marking the start of the Early Horizon, also known as the Formative period. The Chavín culture is recognized for its unique pottery style and for spreading its artistic and religious traditions throughout the Andes region before it collapsed around 200 BCE. After this period, other cultures such as the Moche, Nazca, and Tiwanaku emerged, with Moche and Nazca civilizations becoming prominent around 200 BCE in the former Chavín areas.