Which major Mesoamerican civilizations existed prior to European contact?

The major Mesoamerican civilizations that existed prior to European contact include the Maya, Aztec, and Olmec. Each of these civilizations developed complex societies known for their advancements in agriculture, architecture, and astronomy. The Olmec, recognized as one of the earliest Mesoamerican civilizations, is often credited with laying the foundations for subsequent cultures, including the Maya and Aztec. The Maya developed a sophisticated culture known for their impressive city-states, intricate hieroglyphic writing, and a deep understanding of astronomy. The Aztec civilization, which followed the Maya, established a powerful empire in central Mexico known for its military conquests, rich mythology, and grand architectural achievements.

In contrast, the other choices focus on civilizations that either thrive outside of Mesoamerica or after European contact. The Inca, for example, were a significant civilization in South America, not Mesoamerica. Similarly, the Mississippian culture was located in North America, and the Navajo are a Native American tribe with different historical contexts. The Phoenician, Egyptian, and Greek civilizations primarily belonged to the ancient Mediterranean world, while Babylonian, Assyrian, and Persian civilizations were prominent in the ancient Near East. Therefore, only the Maya,