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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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.

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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