Latin America: Past to Present
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson, you will know the major events in Latin American history, from European conquest to modern times.
Items in this lesson
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson, you will know the major events in Latin American history, from European conquest to modern times.
What do you already know about Latin America's history?
Before the Conquest
Latin America was home to powerful civilisations like the Maya, Aztec, and Inca. They built cities, traded, and developed unique cultures.
European Conquests
Spanish and Portuguese explorers arrived in the late 1400s. They took control of land and resources, bringing new diseases and changing local ways of life.
Colonial Latin America
Latin America was ruled by Spain and Portugal. People were forced to work on farms and in mines. The cultures mixed, creating new foods, music, and languages.
Fighting for Independence
In the 1800s, many people in Latin America wanted freedom. After many battles led by leaders like Simón Bolívar, countries became independent from Europe.
New Nations, New Challenges
USA and Latin America
The USA became a strong influence, sometimes helping and sometimes interfering in Latin American affairs.
Many new countries had trouble earning money. They depended on exports like coffee and sugar.
Economic Struggles
Modern Latin America
Today, Latin America is home to vibrant cultures and big cities. There are still challenges like poverty, but also many opportunities for young people.
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.
