1. Rural-to-Urban Migration

2. The movement from the countryside to cities has been a trend worldwide, but it has been especially strong in Latin America. Latin America is now 80% urban, higher than the U.S.

4. South American Cities by Population

5. Why are so many people moving to the cities?

6. Why are so many people moving to the cities?
*It is a combination of push and pull factors
People are leaving haciendas where there is no hope of advancement
Family farms can’t keep up with increased size of the family
Lure of the city life
Chance for education for kids, medical care

7. This transition can be rough
Most new arrivals end up living in slums on the outskirts of the city (barrios/favelas)
25% unemployment
Many become part of the informal work sector

8. Mexico City is the ultimate “primate” city

9. Problems of Mexico City
*Read over the case study of Mexico City and list problems that the city is dealing with (add these to your notes)