essay

'Olmec' Horizons in Formative Period Mesoamerica: diffusion or social evolution?

latin american horizons : a symposium at dumbarton oaks, 11th and 12th october 1986 • Washington, D.C. • Published In 1993 • Pages: 83-111

By: Grove, David C..

Abstract

This article attempts to re-evaluate the so-called Olmec horizons of Formative period Mesoamerica (the early , late, and modified Olmec horizons). Underlying those horizons is a long-standing belief that they represent Olmec superiority and diffusion. The premise for that belief is largely impressionistic and based upon the exceptional stone monuments created by the Olmec, as well as the magnificent greenstone offerings and other spectacular discoveries at Complex A, La Venta. Elswhere in Mesoamerica archaeological objects that 'look Olmec,' for one reason or another, have been construed as representing some form of Olmec contact or influence, and thus the horizons represented by those same artifacts have been similarly interpreted (p. 102). Grove believes, however, that this concept is not necessarily true, and instead that the archaeological record may indicate a long-term, on-going and gradual social evolution across much of Mesoamerica. This theory is explained to great length in the text.

HRAF PubDate

2010

Region

Middle America and the Caribbean

Sub Region

General Middle America and the Caribbean

Document Type

essay

Evaluation

Creator Type

Archaeologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

Analyst

John Beierle; 2008

Field Date

no date

Coverage Date

4000-2600 BP (2000-600 BC)

Coverage Place

Mexico

Notes

David C. Grove

Includes bibliographical references (p. 104-111)

LCCN

92014833

LCSH

Indians of Mexico--Mexico--Oaxaca Valley--Antiquities