Map Latin America

Your Guides Hola! My name is Anka and this is my friend Naira. Welcome to our home, Latin America.

My family is Puruhá (pronounced poo-roo-ha), which means we have descended from the original indigenous people who lived in Latin America thousands of years ago. Our history is passed down from generation to generation through storytelling. I love listening to the elders in my village when they tell stories of the past.

Now Naira and I will pass the story of our history on to you. Listen carefully so you can share the story with your friends and help us keep our past alive.

Ancient Times: Indigenous Civilizations

Latin America is controlled by three indigenous groups: the Inca, Aztec and Maya. These three groups build massive civilizations out of stone. The ruins of many of these ancient buildings are visited by history-seeking tourists today.

Machu Picchu, an Inca ruin in Peru built in the early 1400s, is one of the most famous tourist spots in Latin America.

Machu Picchu, an Inca ruin in Peru built in the early 1400s, is one of the most famous tourist spots in Latin America.

Mid to Late 1400s: European Rulers

European explorers arrive in Latin America by boat, mostly from Spain and Portugal. They take the control of land and natural resources away from indigenous people in a process called “colonialism.” The indigenous people are pushed into poverty as the colonialists become more powerful.

Early 1800s: Independence

Latin American people fight for independence from the European countries that control them. By 1825, almost all of Latin America has become independent, which means that each country has developed its own government.

Late 1800s: Land and Resources

After independence, the land and natural resources that were once controlled by Europe are taken over by the rich descendants of European colonialists. The indigenous people are struggling with poverty and few of them own their own land.

1900s: Military Control

Latin American governments become very corrupt, which means they are not honest and don’t always make decisions that are best for the people. In many countries, military groups rise up to try to take over governments. Corruption makes poverty even worse because when governments aren’t stable, the economy can’t get stronger. Economies collapse in some countries.

Today: Inequality

Many Latin American countries now have strong governments that are working hard to make life better for the people. There is still a lot of inequality between the indigenous and European people.