Geography of Central America

Study Notes

Location and Geography

Central America is the southernmost part of the North American continent, situated between Mexico and South America.
It's bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
The landscape is predominantly mountainous and hilly, with coastal swamps and lowlands.
Central America is an isthmus, linking two larger landmasses.

Countries of Central America

Seven countries comprise Central America: Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, Panama, Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador.

Middle America

Middle America encompasses Mexico, Caribbean countries, Central American countries, Colombia, and Venezuela.
The Caribbean includes thousands of islands, comprising numerous nations and territories.

Central American Culture

Pre-Columbian civilizations, like the Mayans, flourished in Central America.
Spanish colonization significantly impacted Central American culture, leading to a blend of indigenous and Spanish traditions.
Spanish is the dominant language in most countries, with English being official in Belize.
Mayan languages and English creole dialects are also spoken.
Many indigenous tribes still exist or have descendant populations.

Central American History

Central America's land formation began around three million years ago.
The first inhabitants arrived thousands of years ago, forming tribes and civilizations.
Spanish colonialism drastically altered the region's cultures and lives, though Belize was colonized by Britain.
Independence from Spain occurred in 1821, with Belize gaining independence later in 1973.

Natural Resources and Environmental Concerns

Key resources include iron ore, timber, nickel, fish, and oil.
Unsustainable logging practices negatively impact the environment.
The term "banana republics" describes some countries' dependence on specific crops or resources, often exploited by corporations.

Central American Politics

The Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, significantly impacts the region.
The canal was built by the U.S. in the early 1900s, which controls the canal zone
The Cold War significantly impacted Central American politics, as the U.S. sought to counter Soviet influence and communist movements.
Conflicts, often fueled by differing political ideologies, have left lasting effects.
Modern-day Central America includes democracies and nations facing political strife and authoritarianism.

Climate and Natural Features

The climate is generally humid and tropical.
Mountains, forests, coastal lowlands, and volcanoes are common features.

Description

This quiz explores the geography, countries, and culture of Central America. Learn about its physical features, the seven countries that make up the region, and the impact of historical civilizations. Test your knowledge on the connections between Central America and its surrounding areas.