What topographical feature made it possible for the Olmec to become prosperous through trade?
The presence of rivers and coastal areas made it possible for the Olmec to become prosperous through trade. The Olmec civilization developed in the Gulf Coast region of present-day Mexico, which is characterized by a network of rivers including the Coatzacoalcos and Tonalá rivers. These rivers provided transportation routes for trade between different Olmec settlements and with neighboring regions.
Moreover, the coastal area of the Gulf Coast region offered opportunities for maritime trade. The Olmec had access to the Gulf of Mexico, which allowed them to engage in long-distance trade with other Mesoamerican cultures and even distant regions like Central America and the Caribbean.
The abundance of agricultural land along the river valleys and the coast further supported the development of the Olmec trade network. The fertile soil allowed for the cultivation of crops such as maize, beans, squash, and cotton, which could be traded for other goods and resources.
In summary, the combination of rivers, coastal access, and fertile agricultural land enabled the Olmec to establish a prosperous trading system, facilitating the exchange of goods and contributing to their overall prosperity.