South America

Definition

South America is a continent located in the Western Hemisphere, mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, and is bordered by the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This diverse region became a focal point for European exploration and colonization due to its rich resources, varied landscapes, and indigenous civilizations, which significantly influenced European motivations for exploration during the Age of Discovery.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The early 16th century marked the beginning of extensive European exploration in South America, led primarily by Spain and Portugal.
2. The discovery of precious metals, such as gold and silver in the Andes mountains, significantly fueled European interest in South America.
3. South America's vast resources, including spices, sugar, and tobacco, were highly sought after in Europe and played a crucial role in colonial economies.
4. European motivations for exploration included not only economic gains but also religious zeal to convert indigenous peoples to Christianity.
5. The impact of European exploration drastically altered the demographics, cultures, and political structures of South American societies, leading to a lasting legacy of colonialism.

Review Questions

• How did the geographic features of South America influence European exploration and settlement?
  • The geographic features of South America, such as its vast rivers, mountains like the Andes, and diverse ecosystems, played a significant role in shaping European exploration. The Amazon River, for instance, provided navigable routes for explorers, while the Andes were seen as a source of precious metals. These natural features attracted European powers eager to exploit resources and establish colonies, leading to extensive mapping and settlement efforts throughout the continent.
• Discuss the economic motivations behind European exploration in South America and how they were linked to broader global trade networks.
  • Economic motivations for European exploration in South America were primarily driven by desires for wealth through resource extraction. The promise of gold and silver spurred expeditions that would integrate South America into global trade networks. This connection allowed Europe to import lucrative goods like sugar, tobacco, and spices from South America while exporting manufactured products in return. Such exchanges laid the groundwork for mercantilism and transformed both continents' economies.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of European colonization on indigenous societies in South America and their cultural legacy today.
  • The long-term effects of European colonization on indigenous societies in South America were profound and multifaceted. Colonization led to significant demographic changes due to disease, violence, and displacement, often decimating native populations. Furthermore, it resulted in cultural syncretism where indigenous practices merged with European influences. Today, this legacy is visible in the languages spoken, cultural traditions upheld by descendants of indigenous peoples, and ongoing struggles for rights and recognition within modern nation-states.

Related terms

Colonization: The process by which European powers established control over foreign territories, often involving the settlement of people and the exploitation of resources.

Indigenous Peoples: The original inhabitants of South America, including various ethnic groups with unique cultures and languages, who had established complex societies long before European contact.

Mercantilism: An economic theory that emphasized the importance of accumulating wealth through trade and colonization, driving European nations to explore new territories for resources.