Latin America & the Caribbean Essay Questions

In one or two sentences, explain the reasons Mexico and Brazil have less arable land than other countries in the region.

Mexico and Brazil have less arable land because of how highly populated these countries are.

In one sentence, explain why we use the term "Latin America."

Spanish or Portuguese-speaking nations south of the U.S.

In two or three sentences, explain the benefits of the Panama Canal.

The Isthmus of Panama separates the Atlantic and Pacific oceans from one another. Its central location and narrow width made it the ideal location of the Panama Canal, which was completed in 1914. The Isthmus of Panama has become a strategically important location for both geopolitics and economics.

In two or three sentences, explain what NAFTA did. Who benefitted most and why?

The North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA, is a trade agreement between Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The agreement eliminated a number of tariffs and trade barriers between the three nations. Mexico benefited in the long term because NAFTA allowed its economy to become more diverse.

In one or two sentences, explain the role of the Equator in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The climates of Latin America and the Caribbean are extremely diverse due to elevation and location relative to the Equator. So in this region of the world, there are temperate climates, cold climates, and climates all in between.

In one sentence, explain the difference between Hispanic and Latino.

While Latino refers to one who has origin in Latin America, Hispanic refers to one who is Spanish speaking.

In one sentence, explain why Central America is considered a different subregion of Latin America.

While sharing some history and culture with Mexico, Central America is considered a different subregion of Latin America due to its Mayan influences and tropical climate.