[BeetleB]

I think it's historical. Linear algebra applications fall into two categories:

1. Theoretical (as in vector spaces, etc). These mostly are useful in advanced courses in engineering/science, and a lot of their applications involve calculus (e.g. Fourier series, function spaces, etc). So calculus needs to be taught first.

2. Computational. These can be subdivided into applications that involve calculus (e.g. differential equations) and everything else (graphics, etc).

Many of the latter's applications are relatively recent (last few decades). Whereas calculus was needed in virtually all types of engineering and science. So it made sense to teach calculus.

Imagine it's the 1970's. Your in HS. What will you do with all the linear algebra knowledge that won't require calculus? Assume you have no access to computers.