Question

which statement best describes the political organization of the olmecs? a they were ruled as independent city - states. b they were ruled according to the mandate of heaven. c they were ruled by a democratically - elected legislature. d they were ruled by totalitarian dictators who oversaw all aspects of life.

Explanation:

• Option B: The Mandate of Heaven was a Chinese political concept, not related to the Olmecs.
• Option C: Democratic - elected legislatures are a modern or later - developed political structure, not applicable to the Olmecs.
• Option D: There is no evidence that the Olmecs were ruled by totalitarian dictators overseeing all aspects of life.
• Option A: The Olmec civilization had a political organization of independent city - states, with each city - state having its own ruling structure.

Answer:

A. They were ruled as independent city - states.