World Geography: South America Mr. Meester World History

Basic Geographic Facts South America is the world’s 4th largest continent. It covers just under 7 million square miles. About 12% of the Earth’s total landmass. (17 CAs) It contains only 12 countries & 3 major territories.

Map of South America

The Highs & Lows The tallest point in S. America is Mt. Cerro Aconcagua at 22,833 feet. The lowest point on the continent is found on the Valdes Peninsula at 151 feet below sea level. Both landmarks are found in Argentina.

Important Landforms South America contains 2 of the world’s most impressive regions: the Andes Range & Amazon Jungle The Andes are found along the western edge of S. America & are the world’s 2nd tallest mountain range. The Amazon Basin contains the world’s largest rainforest and largest river by volume.

The Amazon & Andes

People of South America South America’s population is about 380 million people. Most of these people can be found in the huge Mega-cities of South America. (Buenos Aries, Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro)

Language & Religion South America was divided up by Spain & Portugal for 300 years. People still speak these 2 languages throughout the region. Roman Catholic is the main religion of the continent. Many primitive religions are found in rural areas such as the Amazon.

South American Economy In most countries in South America, agriculture is the basis of the economy. Many countries specialize in a cash crop like coffee or bananas. A few countries like Venezuela also have large oil reserves. Tourism also plays a role, but most nations are still trying to fully develop.

Problems in South America Slash & Burn farming is destroying the Amazon at a fast rate. This is helping to cause Global warming & other environmental problems. Drug production & government corruption is also harming the development of South America.