South America

Definition

South America is a continent located in the Western Hemisphere, primarily in the Southern Hemisphere, bordered by the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is known for its diverse geography, rich cultural heritage, and significant indigenous civilizations that existed long before European exploration and colonization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. South America is home to the Andes Mountains, the longest continental mountain range in the world, which runs along the western edge of the continent.
2. The continent has a diverse climate ranging from tropical in the north to polar conditions in the south, which influences its ecological diversity.
3. The Spanish and Portuguese were the primary European powers that colonized South America, leading to significant cultural and demographic changes.
4. The discovery of gold and silver in South America greatly influenced European economies and led to increased exploration and exploitation of resources.
5. Indigenous cultures such as the Quechua and Aymara continue to exist today, maintaining traditions and languages despite centuries of colonial impact.

Review Questions

• How did the geography of South America influence the development of indigenous civilizations prior to European contact?
  • The geography of South America, with features like the Andes Mountains and the Amazon River, significantly shaped the development of indigenous civilizations. The Incas thrived in the mountainous regions, using advanced agricultural techniques like terracing to adapt to their environment. The vast rainforest offered resources but also posed challenges for navigation and communication among different groups, leading to diverse cultures that were often isolated from one another.
• Assess the impact of European colonization on South America's indigenous populations and cultures.
  • European colonization had a devastating impact on South America's indigenous populations, leading to significant demographic changes due to disease, warfare, and forced labor. Many indigenous cultures were disrupted or destroyed as European powers imposed their social structures, religions, and economies. Despite this, some indigenous groups managed to retain aspects of their cultural identity, which can still be seen today through language, customs, and traditional practices.
• Evaluate how treaties such as the Treaty of Tordesillas shaped territorial claims and conflicts in South America during European exploration.
  • The Treaty of Tordesillas established a division of newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal, fundamentally shaping territorial claims in South America. This division led to both cooperation and conflict between the two powers as they sought to expand their empires. The treaty's implications were profound; it resulted in Portuguese control over Brazil while Spain dominated most of the continent. This uneven distribution of power created a legacy of cultural differences that persists today.

Related terms

Inca Empire:

The Inca Empire was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America, centered in present-day Peru, known for its advanced engineering, extensive road systems, and unique agricultural practices.

Treaty of Tordesillas:

A 1494 agreement between Spain and Portugal that divided the newly discovered lands outside Europe, establishing a line of demarcation that affected colonial claims in South America.

Amazon Rainforest: The Amazon Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest in the world, located primarily in Brazil, and is known for its incredible biodiversity and significance to global ecology.