Latin American Culture Francisci WG.4

Indian Civilizations of Latin America Aztecs: Ethnic group of central Mexico (present day Mexico City) 14th to 16th centuries Had pyramids Known for chocolate, popcorn, chewing gum, advanced medicine and education – regardless of rank or gender Died off due to battles and diseases brought by the Europeans

Indian Civilizations of Latin America Incas: Lived along the Andes Mountains of South America from 1438 to 1572. Machu Picchu: Ancient Incan city in Peru located on top of a mountain. Conquered by the Spanish in 1572. Known for architecture, roads, bridges and terrace farming

Mayans: From the Yucatan Peninsula of Central America (AD 250-900) Famous site is the Tikal: Ancient Mayan ruins in Guatemala Known for their calendar, advanced writing system and production of cotton

European Arrival The Spanish and Portuguese came to Latin America to search for gold, silver, iron ore and gems. Most of Latin America speaks Spanish except for Brazil, which speaks Portuguese Brought with them diseases that the Indians were not immune too Europeans left behind their language, customs, music and religion.

European Influence Dominant religion in Latin America in Roman Catholicism which was brought by the Spanish and Portuguese (worship in cathedrals) Europeans brought Africans to Latin America and enslaved them. Many African traditions are still evident in Latin America (steel drum bands, reggae)

European Influence Many people of European Ancestry intermingled with either native peoples (Indians) or with African slaves. Mestizos: A person of Indian and European ancestry. Mulatto: A person of mixed African & European Ancestry

Food and Entertainment Diet consists of beans, rice, tortillas, quinoa and corn Most countries enjoy spicy food Most popular sports: Soccer, cricket and bull fighting. Mariachis: Small group of musicians in native costume that stroll an area playing Mexican folk music Samba: Brazilian dance of African origin Calypso & Bossa Nova: Styles of Brazilian music

Megacities of Latin America Megacity: a very large city, typically one with a population of over ten million people. Mexico City, Mexico Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Buenos Aires, Argentina Poor people tend to live in shantytowns on the outskirts of cities

Current Trends There is a rapid population growth rate in Latin America (especially along the coasts). Population pyramid is shaped like a triangle or pyramid This indicates a large percentage of the population is 15 years or younger

Current Trends Low literacy rate in many parts of Latin America Governments are focusing on education Still problems with getting and keeping children in school (especially in urban areas) A trend for many Latin Americans to move to other regions of the world Out Migration: To leave one region in order to settle in another. Current Trends