Geography of South America Regions

Geographic Context

• South America is divided into three regions: northern tropics, Andean countries, and southern grasslands.
• The Guianas (Suriname, French Guiana, and Guyana) share similar economic activities (fishing, mining, farming) due to shared resources.
• People of mixed African and other ancestry are called Mullattoes.
• The Andes are the world's longest mountain range.
• The Pampas are vast fertile plains used for ranching and commercial farming.

Land Use and Resources

• The Andes have limited good farmland, with much of the eastern area covered by tropical rainforests.
• Farming in the Andes primarily takes place on high plateaus and in narrow mountain valleys.
• Various crops (wheat, coffee, corn, potatoes, fruits, and vegetables) can be grown in different altitudes.
• Commercial farming in the Andes is mostly concentrated in western foothills and coastal areas of Ecuador and Peru.
• Subsistence farming is practiced at higher altitudes.
• Cattle ranching thrives in the Pampas grasslands.
• The Andes have rich mineral resources (gold, silver, copper) mined in the highlands of Peru and Bolivia.

Humans' Interaction with the Environment

• Humans in South America engage in commercial farming, subsistence farming, mining, and cattle ranching.
• Hydroelectric dams are used to generate electricity.
• Dams can cause environmental damage to delicate ecosystems.

Rich Culture

• South American culture is a blend of European and Native American influences.
• The Gaucho, a symbol of independent life, is associated with the Pampas.
• Spanish culture, language, and Catholicism have significant influence.
• Indigenous music incorporates both Spanish and native elements.
• Mestizos (mixed heritage) and indigenous populations play a large role in shaping the culture.
• Indigenous textiles, music, and languages have survived over the centuries.
• Traditional practices like llama and alpaca raising still exist in several South American countries.

Explore the diverse geographic regions of South America, including the northern tropics, Andean countries, and southern grasslands. Learn about the economic activities, land use, and unique cultural aspects of this vibrant continent. Test your knowledge on farming practices and resources in the Andes.