1. BRAZIL

2. Brazil Geography Only 2 types of landforms Plains and Plateaus
Escarpment-A steep cliff between two level areas at different heights.
Escarpment provided natural barrier.
As result much of Brazil’s interior was sparsely populated.

3. Northeast Region
Large sugar plantations built by Portuguese colonists in 1500’s
Brazil became the world’s major producer of sugar.
Avg. life expectancy in NE Region
49 yrs. old.
Extreme poverty
Chronic malnutrition

4. Amazon Indians Only 10% of Brazil’s population lives in Amazon.
Many killed by disease brought by Portuguese in 1500’s and current interior expansion.
To help preserve population: Brazil govt. set up reservations designed to keep group together.

5. Southeast Region Brazil’s “Economic Heartland”
Humid climate and fertile soil
Largest cash crop: COFFEE!!!!
Brazil: “The World’s Coffee Pot”

6. Other Economic Developments
Steel mills and Oil Factories:
Manufacturing thrived since 1950’s.
Growth in automobile, chemical and steel industries.

7. Economic Challenges
Despite strong agricultural economy most people live in Sao Paulo or Rio.
Looking for a better life
Many do not find jobs-live in Favelas
Poor living conditions
Dangerous and unsanitary
Menial jobs or begging

8. Plantation Life Poor distribution of land-
Few rich owners on good soil
Poor subsistence farmers on sertao-(poor soil)

9. Government Policies
Redistribute land-Promised in 1990’s but never followed through.
Develop Brazilian interior
Move capital from Rio de Janeiro to Brasilia…gave away plots of land in Amazon Region…..PROBLEM?
Amazon Forest=Poor soil

10. Deforestation
Soil not very fertile in forest region-after few years of farming, nutrients were diminished….have to clear more land.
Results:
Permanent removal of woodland
Loss of plant and animal species

11. Possible Solution Gasohol: alcohol-based fuel Ecotourism:
Made from sugar cane
Ecotourism:
Tourism encouraging
environmental
awareness