1. Central America

3. Central America Diverse Physical Landscape & Climate
Agriculture Dominates the Economy (Subsistence Farming)
There is a Large Gap Between Rich & Poor

4. Landforms & Climate Located on a Isthmus Three Major Landform Regions
Mountainous Core, Caribbean Lowlands, Pacific Coastal Plains

5. Mountainous Core Some Peaks (13,000 Ft.) Active Volcanoes
Two Different Climates (Spring-Like & Winter-Like)

6. Caribbean Lowlands Tropical Wet Climate
Year Round High Temperature & Heavy Rain (100 in.)
Not Very Fertile Soil

7. Pacific Coastal Plains
Tropical Wet & Dry Climate
Savanna (Grasslands) Vegetation

8. Regions & People Home to Several Ethnic Groups
Indian, Mestizos & African

9. Political Unrest Many Countries Have Internal Problems
Countries Serve the Interest of the Wealthy
Opponents Have Guerilla Movements

10. Guatemala Most Populous Country in Central America
In 1821, Gained Independence From Spain
Ruled by a Series of Caudillos (Military Dictators)