Latin America

Definition

Latin America refers to a region in the Americas where Romance languages, primarily Spanish and Portuguese, are spoken. This area includes countries in South America, Central America, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean, and it has a rich history influenced by colonization, indigenous cultures, and later independence movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Latin America gained independence from European powers mainly during the early 19th century, with key figures like Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín leading revolutionary movements.
2. The economies of Latin American countries have often been shaped by colonial legacies, including reliance on agriculture and extraction of natural resources.
3. The Cold War significantly impacted Latin America, as the U.S. engaged in efforts to contain communism through both support for authoritarian regimes and various interventions.
4. Social stratification in Latin America has historically been influenced by race and class, leading to deep inequalities that persist today.
5. Responses to globalization in Latin America have included both integration into global markets and strong movements for social justice and anti-imperialism.

Review Questions

• How did the legacy of colonialism shape the social and economic structures of Latin American countries?
  • Colonialism created lasting social hierarchies in Latin America, where a small elite often controlled land and resources while indigenous populations and descendants of enslaved Africans faced marginalization. Economically, the reliance on agriculture and resource extraction established patterns of dependency that hindered diverse economic development. This unequal distribution of wealth and power continues to affect social relations and economic policies in many Latin American nations.
• In what ways did nationalism manifest in Latin America during the 19th century independence movements?
  • Nationalism in Latin America was characterized by a collective desire for self-determination and sovereignty among diverse groups against colonial rule. Leaders like Simón Bolívar rallied support by appealing to shared cultural identities and historical grievances against colonial powers. The emergence of national pride led to the establishment of independent states, each striving to define their identity while dealing with internal divisions based on class, race, and regional differences.
• Evaluate the impact of U.S. foreign policy on Latin America during the Cold War era and its long-term effects on the region's political landscape.
  • U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War significantly influenced Latin America's political dynamics, as it often prioritized anti-communism over democracy. This led to support for authoritarian regimes that suppressed dissent, such as in Chile under Pinochet or Argentina's Dirty War. The long-term effects include ongoing political instability, distrust towards U.S. intervention, and the rise of leftist movements that challenge traditional power structures. Consequently, this legacy shapes contemporary debates about sovereignty, governance, and U.S.-Latin American relations.

Related terms

Colonialism:

The practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country or territory, often leading to the establishment of settlements and exploitation of resources.

Independence Movements: Efforts by colonies to gain independence from imperial powers, which were particularly prominent in Latin America during the 19th century.

Neocolonialism: The practice of using capitalism, globalization, and cultural imperialism to influence a country in lieu of direct military control or indirect political control.