1. Revealing a Previously Unknown Civilization: Before these discoveries, the Olmec civilization was largely unknown to archaeologists. These sites, dating back to the Preclassic period (1500-400 BCE), provided the first concrete evidence of their existence, their artistic style, and their sophisticated culture.
2. Understanding the Origins of Mesoamerican Culture: The Olmec civilization is widely considered the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica. The art, religious practices, and social organization of the Olmecs heavily influenced later civilizations like the Maya, Aztec, and Zapotec. Discovering these ruins helped trace the origins of these cultures and understand the early development of Mesoamerican civilization.
3. Monumental Architecture and Art: The ruins at San Lorenzo and La Venta revealed impressive examples of Olmec architecture, including large platforms, pyramids, and monumental sculptures. These sculptures, often depicting human heads with distinctive features, provided valuable insights into Olmec iconography and artistic style.
4. Insights into Olmec Society: The layout of the sites and the presence of ritual objects provided information about Olmec social structure, religious beliefs, and economic activities. The discovery of sophisticated jade carving workshops at La Venta, for example, pointed to the importance of trade and the skilled craftsmanship of the Olmecs.
5. Challenging Traditional Views: The Olmecs were once thought to be a small, localized culture. However, the discovery of these major ceremonial centers, the widespread distribution of Olmec art, and the influence on later civilizations demonstrated that they were a powerful and influential civilization with a significant impact on the development of Mesoamerican culture.
In summary, the discovery of the ruins at San Lorenzo and La Venta was a pivotal moment in Mesoamerican archaeology. It allowed us to understand the origins of Mesoamerican civilization, uncover a remarkable and complex culture, and appreciate the extraordinary artistic and architectural achievements of the Olmec people.