Chapter 27 - Latin America
The land mass that stretches southward from the Rio Grande to the tip of South America is known as Latin America. It is called Latin America because the official language of most of the countries is either Spanish or Portuguese, both of which are based on Latin.
Latin America was first explored and settled by the Spanish. Later, other Europeans established settlements. A large number of Portuguese settled along the eastern shores of South America in what today is Brazil.
Extremes are the rule rather than exception in Latin America. Dense, tropical rain forests are as common as snow-capped mountains. Large, modern cities may not be far away from wild jungles.
The food customs of Latin America are rich and varied. They reflect the culture, climate, and geography of each country. The ancient Aztecs and the Spanish conquistadores influenced Mexico. The foods of Peru reflect the ancient Inca civilization. The foods of Argentina are an unusual mixture of European influnces and native foods grown in the rich soil. The foods of Brazil reflect strong African and Portuguese heritage.
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