South America

South America is a continent entirely in the Western Hemisphere and mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, with a considerably smaller portion in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the southern subregion of the Americas, bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean, on the north and east by the Atlantic Ocean, and to the south by the Drake Passage.

The continent includes twelve sovereign countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela. It also has two dependent territories: the Falkland Islands and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, and one internal territory: French Guiana.

South America has an area of 17,840,000 square kilometers and a population of more than 434 million people. Brazil is the largest country by both population and economy. Most people live near the coasts, while the interior and far south are less populated. The continent's landscape includes the Andes mountains in the west and vast lowlands in the east, drained by major rivers like the Amazon, Orinoco, and Paraná.

Culturally, South America is shaped by the interaction of Indigenous peoples with European conquerors, immigrants, and African slaves. Most South Americans speak Spanish or Portuguese, and the region is rich in Western traditions. Although it has been a peaceful continent since 1900, some countries still face high rates of violent crime.

History

Main article: History of South America

South America is believed to have been first settled by people crossing the Bering Land Bridge from Russia over 15,000 years ago. These early people traveled south through North America and eventually reached South America via the Isthmus of Panama.

One of the earliest known civilizations in South America was Caral–Supe, located on the central Peruvian coast around 3500 BC. This civilization is famous for its monumental architecture, including structures that are considered among the oldest cities in the world. Other notable early cultures include the Moche, Paracas, and Nazca in Peru, and the Tiwanaku in Bolivia.

European colonization began in the early 1500s when Spain and Portugal claimed South American lands for themselves. This period brought significant changes, including the introduction of new diseases that affected the native populations, and the establishment of new economic systems. Many native traditions blended with European practices, leading to the development of new cultural identities.

The desire for independence from European rule grew in the early 1800s, leading to wars that freed most of South America from Spanish and Portuguese control. Leaders like Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín played key roles in these independence movements.

In the years that followed, South American nations faced internal conflicts and wars as they worked to define their borders and establish stable governments. Despite these challenges, the region has continued to develop, with periods of both democratic rule and military governments. Today, South America is focused on reducing foreign influence and promoting regional integration through organizations like Mercosur.

Geography

Main article: Geography of South America

South America is the southern part of the Americas, mostly lying in the Southern Hemisphere with a small portion in the Northern Hemisphere. It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the north and east, and the Drake Passage to the south. The continent includes notable features such as Angel Falls, the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall, and the Amazon River, the largest river by volume. It also has the Andes mountains, the longest mountain range, and the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth.

South America is rich in minerals like gold, silver, and petroleum, which have greatly influenced its economies. Brazil is the largest country, covering nearly half of the continent. The continent also includes several outlying islands, such as the ABC islands and Trinidad and Tobago, though these are often considered part of North America geopolitically. The climate varies widely, from tropical in the Amazon basin to cold in Tierra del Fuego. South America is also extremely biodiverse, home to animals like the llama, anaconda, and piranha.

Politics

See also: Democracy in Latin America and the Caribbean

South America has a rich political history. Many countries began as republics led by strong leaders called caudillos, with Brazil being unique as a constitutional monarchy for its first years of independence. Today, all South American countries are presidential republics except for Suriname, which is a parliamentary republic. French Guiana is part of France, while the Falkland Islands and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands belong to Britain.

In recent times, South American countries have worked together through groups like Mercosur and the Andean Community. These efforts aim to help economies grow, allow people to move freely between countries, and work together on defense and trade without extra taxes called tariffs.

List of states and territories

Main article: List of sovereign states and dependent territories in South America

South America is home to many countries and territories. This list includes all the places where people live and govern themselves in the continent. You can find more details about each country and territory in the main article linked above.

Economy

Main article: Economy of South America

Since 1930, South America has seen growth in many economic areas. Farming and raising animals are key, with much of what is produced used locally. However, exporting crops like soy and wheat is very important for trade.

Brazil and Argentina are among the world's industrial leaders. The most industrialized nations are Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and Chile, which together make up over 80% of the region's economy. Industries include electronics, textiles, food, and automotive products.

Tourism is growing, with popular spots including Rio de Janeiro, Florianópolis, and Machu Picchu. The region has diverse landscapes and cultures that attract visitors.

Agriculture

Brazil leads in producing crops like sugarcane, soy, and coffee. Argentina is a top producer of yerba mate and soy. Chile focuses on high-value fruits like cherry and cranberry. Colombia is known for its coffee and avocado. Peru grows quinoa and a variety of other crops.

Brazil is also a major exporter of chicken meat and has a large cattle herd. Argentina is a significant producer of beef, and both countries export meat and dairy products.

Manufacturing

Brazil has the largest manufacturing sector in South America, with industries ranging from automobiles to steel. Argentina, Colombia, Peru, and Chile also have notable manufacturing sectors. Brazil is a key producer of processed foods, pulp, and paper.

Mining

Mining is vital for countries like Chile, Peru, and Bolivia. Chile is a top producer of copper and lithium. Peru produces silver, zinc, and tin. Brazil is rich in iron ore, gold, and gemstones like amethyst.

Tourism

Tourism is an important source of income for many South American countries. Famous destinations include Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Machu Picchu in Peru, and the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. Natural wonders, historic sites, and vibrant cities attract millions of visitors each year.

Energy

South America has diverse energy sources. Brazil leads in hydroelectric power and has significant potential for wind and solar energy. The country is self-sufficient in oil production. Argentina and Colombia also have growing energy sectors, with Argentina having large reserves of shale oil and gas.

Transport

South America has a variety of transport options. Road networks are extensive, especially in Brazil and Argentina. Commercial aviation is well-developed, with major airports in cities like São Paulo, Bogotá, and Buenos Aires. Seaports are crucial for trade, with key ports in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile.

Rail networks exist but are less extensive than in other regions. Waterways, particularly the Amazon basin, are important for transport in Brazil. Public transport in major cities often relies on buses, with some cities also having subways and other systems.

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of South America

See also: List of South American countries by population and List of South American countries by life expectancy

South America has over 428 million people. Most people live around the edges of the continent, with many areas like tropical forests, deserts, and icy regions having fewer people. Big cities are where many people live. The people of South America come from many backgrounds, including European, African, and Indigenous groups. Spanish and Portuguese are the most common languages.

Language

Main article: Languages of South America

Spanish and Portuguese are the most spoken languages in South America. Spanish is the official language in most countries, while Portuguese is the official language of Brazil. Other languages such as Dutch, English, and French are also official in some places. Many Indigenous languages are still spoken, such as Quechua, Guaraní, and Mapudungun.

Religion

Main articles: Religion in South America and Religion in Latin America

See also: History of the Jews in Latin America and the Caribbean, Buddhism in Brazil, and Islam in Argentina

Most South Americans are Christians, with many being Roman Catholic. Other religions include African and Indigenous beliefs, as well as East Asian religions like Buddhism and Shinto. There are also communities of Jews, Hindus, and Muslims.

Ethnic demographics

Main article: Ethnic groups in South America

People in South America have mixed backgrounds. In many countries, people have European, Indigenous, and African ancestry. Indigenous groups make up a large part of the population in some countries. There are also significant communities of African, East Asian, and other ethnic groups.

Indigenous people

Main articles: List of Indigenous peoples of South America and Indigenous peoples of South America

Some Indigenous groups still live traditional lives, often in the Amazon rainforest. These include the Aymara, Guaraní, Mapuche, and Quechua peoples, among others.

Populace

While Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia have the largest populations, big cities exist in many countries. The largest metropolitan areas include São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Buenos Aires. These cities have millions of people and are important centers of culture and economy.

South America has many large cities and growing urban areas. Brazil has several big city regions, and Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru also have major urban centers.

Culture

Main article: Culture of South America

South America has a rich and varied culture shaped by its indigenous peoples, historic ties to the Iberian Peninsula and Africa, and immigrants from around the world. The continent is famous for its music, including genres like vallenato, cumbia, samba, bossa nova, tango, and Nueva Canción.

Main article: Cuisine of South America

South American food is diverse, with influences from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the region's own indigenous cultures. Popular dishes vary widely; for example, Bahia in Brazil is known for its West African–influenced cuisine, while people in many countries enjoy drinks like mate and wines.

Main article: Art of South America

South American artists have gained international recognition. Painters and sculptors such as Oswaldo Guayasamín from Ecuador and Fernando Botero from Colombia are well known for their unique styles.

Main article: Sport in South America

Football is the most popular sport in South America, with Brazil and Argentina being among the world's best teams. The continent has also hosted major events like the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup. Other popular sports include cycling, rugby, and field hockey.