Latin American Studies End of Year Review

Ancient Civilizations

100

Civilization that lived in present day Peru, made, Machu Pichu, and built earthquake proof buildings

The Inca

200

This civilization discovered the number "0" and a deep understanding of astronomy

The Maya

300

Built the massive island city known as Tenochtitlan that contained some of the largest pyramids in the world.

The Aztec

400

This agricultural system used by the Inca involved carving out stepped platforms in the slopes of mountains. 

Terrace Farming

500

This irrigation system created by the Aztecs was one of the most complex agricultural techniques in history. It revolved around creating floating gardens that were able to grow enough to sustain a population of 200,000 more than any city in Europe.

The chinampas

Independence Movements

100

This was the first successful slave rebellion where they took over the entire island and fully pushed the French out

The Haitian Rebellion

200

This revolution did not occur in Latin America, but it inspired revolutions throughout Latin America by showing other nations that they could do it

The American Revolution

300

This was the first nation in Latin America to declare independence from the Spanish

Colombia (then known as the Gran Colombia)

400

This individual is seen as a hero as he helped lead rebellions throughout South America against the Spanish.  He even has a country named after him.

Simon Bolivar

500

In September of 1810 this individual helped lead Mexico to independence from Spain

Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla

Foreign Intervention

100

This company bought up large amounts of land throughout Central America and then used its influence to control what happened in those countries.

The United Fruit Company

200

This is the action that the U.S. took in multiple countries when they were afraid that someone coming to power may have been a Communist or would support Communism in their country

Coups or overthrowing of the government

300

Fears of Communism in this country led to a failed invasion by the CIA known as the Bay of Pigs and eventually led to a standoff between the U.S. and Russia over the deployment of nuclear missiles

Cuba

400

In this country the U.S. lent support to the military take over of the government.  The president of the country ended up being killed during the conflict and a military dictator, Pinochet, took power.

Chile

500

The CIA in the 1950's helped overthrow the government in this country because they thought the policies of leader Arbenz were too Communist.  In reality, the leader of the CIA had business ties to the company that would be hurt by Arbenz's policies. 

Guatemala

Current Issues

100

This environmental issue in South America will potentially increase global warming, and result in a significant loss of habitats for animals.

Destruction of the Rain Forest

200

This issue has led to an increase in murders in Mexico and El Salvador, and violence overall.  It's also weakened the governments of both nations too.

Drug Cartels

300

An issue facing many LatinX people as they try to come to the U.S. where many face discrimination, low wages, and decreasing job opportunities

Immigration

400

When a nation or people lose access to land, goods or services, and government protection because of outside influence

Foreign Interference from Governments or Companies

500

An economic issue that most of the world is facing, not just Latin America that results in higher prices for many goods and services.

Inflation

Misc

100

Many falsely assume this holiday celebrates Mexico's Independence, but it really just celebrates Mexico beating back the French from one specific city.  Beer companies made a marketing campaign around it.

El Cinco de Mayo

200

This holiday is when many families in Central America, particularly Mexico, remember their loved ones by building an altar that may include photos, loved possessions or food, and often flowers and decorations.

The Day of the Dead or Dia de Los Muertos

300

This revolutionary helped lead the revolutionaries to victory in Cuba.  He helped lead Cuba with Fidel Castro and is responsible for helping it become a leader in health care and drastically increasing literacy rates.

Che Geuvara

400

Considered to be the biggest party in the world.  It happened each year in Brazil in February and originally started as a celebration of the arrival of Spring

Carnival

500

This guy was shipped wrecked on Mexico and eventually joined the Maya people.  When the Spanish he came, he chose to remain with the Maya and went on to die fighting against the Spanish.  His children were first born to Spanish and Maya parents.

Gonzalo Guerrero