Understanding Cultures, Climates and Government Latin America Understanding Cultures, Climates and Government

Central America & the Caribbean Islands What are the Central American countries? What are the countries of the Caribbean islands? Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti & the Dominican Republic

The Greater & Lesser Antilles What are the Greater & Lesser Antilles? What is common here? *There are two main island groups in the Caribbean. The larger islands are the Greater Antilles, the smaller island are the Lesser Antilles *Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions

Today, the countries of this region have elected governments Central America Today, the countries of this region have elected governments Guatemala is the most populated country in C. America (12 million) Nicaragua is the largest C. American country C. America produces 51% of the worlds banana imports C. America also produces large amounts of coffee

Caribbean Islands Cuba is the largest and most populated country in the Caribbean. It is located 90 miles south of Florida, and is roughly the size of Tennessee Cuba has a Communist government, led by Fidel Castro

Mexico The capitol of Mexico is Mexico City Mexico has few rivers, but one major river is the Rio Bravo (Rio Grande in the U.S.) Much of Mexico consist of plateaus and mountains. The highest peak is Mount Orizaba, at 18,700 feet MEXICO HAS 31 STATES

What is Mexico’s Climate? What climates exist in Mexico? What are the well-known deserts of Mexico? When is the rainy season? Desert, steppe, savanna & humid tropical climates The Sonoran Desert & Chihuahuan Desert Desert scrub & vegetation is common Summer. Forests cover 20% of Mexico. These rain forests provide a home for anteaters, jaguars, monkeys, parrots, etc.

What Are the Resources of Mexico? Petroleum is Mexico’s most important energy resource Mining is also important. Mexico produces large amounts of silver, copper, gold, lead & zinc

Cultures & Customs About 89% of Mexico’s population is Roman Catholic. The Day of the Dead is celebrated on November 1 & 2 to honor dead ancestors. Cinco de Mayo- Mexico’s Independence day, May 5

Mexico’s government includes an elected president and a congress Mexico Today What is Mexico’s government like? Where do people work? Mexico’s government includes an elected president and a congress Many people work in industries such as oil, mining & manufacturing. Tourism is also important to Mexico. Many people visit popular coastal cities & resorts