Latin AmericaCultural Characteristics
GPS SS6G4a, b, cDescribe the blending of ethnic groups, why
Portuguese & Spanish are the main languages, and how literacy affects the
standard of living
E.Q.
• How did European culture affect Latin America?
Define Vocabulary (p. 3)
• Mulatto
• Mestizo
• Literacy
• Standard of Living
Blending of Ethnic Groups
• 3 main races – Native Americans (original group)– Europeans (arrived 16th & 17th centuries,
forced Native Americans to work as slaves –diseases killed many)
– Africans (brought by Europeans as slaves to replace Native Americans)
• Intermarriage created blending of cultures
Religion
• Mostly Roman Catholic
• Blended with Native American and African beliefs
• Examples– Santeria (Cuba)– Day of the Dead (Mexico)
Problem
• Europeans often get best jobs, education, and health care
• Other groups demand equality
Languages• Spanish &
Portuguese had colonies in the Americas & spread their languages
• Called “Latin America” because mostly “Latin” languages – covers Central & south America + Caribbean
Literacy & Standard of Living• 89% in Latin America & Caribbean are literate• Standard of living is often higher in countries where
literacy rate is high
• Some countries believe it is more important for boys to get an education than girls
• Poor are often illiterate because their communities can’t pay for teachers and schools
• Cycle of poverty – can’t afford education, so only get low paying job. Can’t afford kids’ education…
• What are you doing with your FREE education?
CRCT Test PrepReading maps and graphs
Work with a partner
• P. 35 questions 61-64
• P. 38 questions 69-72
• Due 15 minutes before end of period – checked and corrected!
Summary:Discuss with a partner and answer in paragraph form – ticket out the
door – both partners’ names on one paper
• How did European culture affect Latin America?
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