What evidence points to a different type of government in Tres Zapotes? Evidence of salt and cacao was found there. The majority of the colossal heads were found there. Multiple sites have been found that would have been palaces or elite homes. Raised platforms for a temple were found there.
The evidence of salt and cacao, the majority of colossal heads, multiple sites that could have been palaces or elite homes, and raised platforms for a temple in Tres Zapotes suggest the presence of a different type of government in the region.
1. Salt and cacao: The presence of salt and cacao indicates the existence of a trading system or economic structure. These valuable commodities were likely controlled or regulated by a governing authority, suggesting a level of centralized control.
2. Colossal heads: The discovery of the majority of colossal heads in Tres Zapotes indicates the existence of a powerful ruling class or elite group. These monumental sculptures were likely created to depict important leaders or prominent individuals, suggesting the presence of a hierarchical society with a centralized authority.
3. Palaces or elite homes: The identification of multiple sites that could have served as palaces or elite homes further suggests the presence of a different type of government. These structures would have been used by privileged individuals or rulers, indicating the concentration of power and a social hierarchy.
4. Raised platforms for a temple: The presence of raised platforms for temples or ceremonial structures implies the existence of religious or spiritual practices within the society. These religious institutions would have required organizational structures and likely played a significant role in governance, indicating a form of government intertwined with religion.
Overall, the combination of economic control, monumental artwork, evidence of social hierarchy through palatial structures, and religious institutions suggests a complex and centralized type of government in Tres Zapotes.