January 22, 2013

1. January 22, 2013 You need to purchase a pair of sneakers since they are required for physical education class. Which is an example of effective decision making? A. You buy the first pair of sneakers you try on at the first store you visit. B. You use your money to buy a pair of jeans instead of a pair of sneakers. C. You buy a pair of sneakers after considering fit, appearance, and cost. D. You buy the most stylish and expensive pair of sneakers you find.

2. Cultures of Latin America

3. The Importance of the Spanish and Portuguese Empires • 15th century – Europeans began establishing colonies in Latin America • Spain and Portugal colonized most of Latin America • Colony – territory which a nation conquers and claims another land

4. Spain's former colonies eventually became several Latin American nations. • Portugal’s former territory became the country of Brazil

5. Spanish is the official language of countries that used to be a part of the Spanish Empire Portuguese is the official language of Brazil.

6. People in Latin America • Many different ethnic groups make up Latin America • Diverse traditions, cultures, customs, and beliefs • Indigenous languages still exist (spoken in rural parts).

7. Mestizas • People of mixed European and Native American ancestry. • Over the centuries, many Europeans and native’s married and/or had children together. • Result – very few people in modern-day Latin America are purely European or Native American descent.

8. Mulattos • People of black and white ancestry • Many European land owners had black African slaves • Over time, interracial relationships produced children • Large mulatto populations became common

9. Religion • Many Latin American are Catholic Christians • In parts of the Caribbean, traditional faiths exists • Often mix pre-colonial beliefs with Christianity

10. Literacy Rates in Latin America • Literacy – ability to read and write • Nations with higher literacy rates tend to be more economically developed. • Raises the standard of living • Less-developed countries tend to have lower literacy rates • Latin American countries with lower literacy rates are eager to improve literacy.