What was the relationship between the olmec and the Maya in central America?

The Olmec and the Maya had a complex relationship characterized by cultural exchange and influence. The Olmec, often considered the "mother culture" of Mesoamerica, flourished from around 1200 to 400 BCE and laid the groundwork for later civilizations, including the Maya. While the Olmec civilization declined before the Maya reached their peak, the Maya adopted various aspects of Olmec culture, such as religious practices, artistic styles, and possibly even aspects of their writing system. This interaction contributed to the development of the sophisticated Maya civilization that emerged in the region.