How can evidence such as artwork and public buildings help archaeologist trace the influence of a civilization like the e Olmec on later peoples?

Artwork and public buildings serve as vital evidence for archaeologists studying the Olmec civilization's influence on later cultures. Artistic styles, motifs, and iconography found in Olmec artifacts can be compared to those in subsequent civilizations, revealing cultural exchanges and adaptations. Similarly, the architectural techniques and urban planning seen in Olmec sites can be traced in later constructions, indicating the transmission of knowledge and practices. Together, these elements help establish a continuum of cultural development and influence across generations.