Read the passage found in World Geography online textbook (Topic 3: Middle America, Lesson 1: the Olmec and Maya Civilizations). Then, answer the question: How did the slash-and-burn agriculture method helped the Olmec population?
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a the population decreased
b the population increased
c the population had no change
d the population migrated
The slash-and-burn agriculture method helped the Olmec population by enabling an increase in population. This method involved cutting down and burning trees and plants in a selected area of land, which resulted in nutrient-rich ashes that enriched the soil. The cleared land was then used for farming, providing the Olmecs with a sustainable food source. The improved agricultural practices allowed for a surplus of food, which supported a growing population and led to the development of complex societies. Therefore, the answer is b) the population increased.
