South America

The Amazon rainforest is primarily located in the Southern Hemisphere, with its northernmost regions situated just south of the equator. The equator runs through countries such as Ecuador and Brazil, with the rainforest extending roughly between 5 degrees north and 15 degrees south latitude. This places most of the rainforest within approximately 5 to 15 degrees of distance from the equator.

The states typically considered part of the Southwest region of the United States include Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, Nevada, and portions of California and Colorado. This region is characterized by its arid climate, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, including significant Native American influences. The Southwest is known for its deserts, canyons, and vibrant cities like Phoenix and Santa Fe.

The word for wind in Quechua is "sumaq." In this context, it can refer to the natural phenomenon of wind or can also carry connotations of beauty and freshness associated with the air. Quechua is a language widely spoken in the Andes region of South America, particularly in countries like Peru and Bolivia.

The island group closest to South America is the Galápagos Islands, which are part of Ecuador. Located about 600 miles (970 kilometers) west of the mainland, these islands are known for their unique biodiversity and were famously studied by Charles Darwin. The Galápagos are situated in the Pacific Ocean and play a significant role in the study of evolution and conservation.

South America is primarily located in the following geographical zones: the Northern Hemisphere, where its northernmost regions are situated, and the Southern Hemisphere, which encompasses the majority of the continent. Additionally, parts of South America lie within the Western Hemisphere, as it extends from the Prime Meridian to the eastern Pacific Ocean. The continent is also associated with the tropics, particularly the Tropic of Capricorn, which crosses through its southern regions.

The Line of Demarcation, established by the Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494, divided the New World between Spain and Portugal. As a result, Spanish became the dominant language in most of South America, while Portuguese was established in Brazil. This division has led to the distinct linguistic landscape seen today, where Spanish is the primary language in most countries, while Portuguese is predominantly spoken in Brazil. The historical context of colonization significantly shaped the linguistic and cultural identities of the region.

When prices rise in South America due to increased local demand for products, it can lead to inflation, reducing the purchasing power of consumers. This may force households to cut back on non-essential spending, impacting local businesses. Additionally, higher prices can exacerbate economic inequality, as lower-income families may struggle more than wealthier ones to afford basic goods. Overall, sustained price increases can hinder economic growth and consumer confidence in the region.

In South America, spring typically occurs from September to November. This season follows winter, which runs from June to August, and precedes summer, which lasts from December to February. The specific timing can vary slightly depending on the region, but generally, these months are recognized as spring across most of the continent.

By the early 1820s, most of South America had achieved independence from Spanish colonial rule, largely through a series of revolutionary movements led by figures such as Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín. The last significant territories to gain independence were Peru in 1821 and Bolivia in 1825. Brazil declared independence from Portugal in 1822, completing the wave of independence movements across the continent. By the mid-1820s, the majority of South American nations were established as independent states.

Successful military campaigns in South America during the early 19th century, led by figures like Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín, played a crucial role in the struggle for independence from Spanish colonial rule. These campaigns, marked by significant battles and strategic alliances, weakened Spanish authority and galvanized popular support for independence. The military successes not only liberated key territories but also inspired a sense of national identity among the diverse populations of the region. Ultimately, these efforts culminated in the establishment of independent nations throughout South America, reshaping the continent's political landscape.

Interchanges for shearings in the southern regions are typically found at key transportation hubs, such as major highways and rail networks. These locations facilitate the transfer of goods and livestock between different modes of transport, enhancing efficiency in the agricultural supply chain. Additionally, they may be located near processing facilities or markets to streamline distribution. Specific sites can vary by region, so it's important to consult local agricultural resources for precise details.

In America, the most common kitchen measurement is the cup, particularly for liquid and dry ingredients. Recipes often use measurements in cups, tablespoons, and teaspoons, which are part of the customary system. This system contrasts with the metric system used in many other countries. Additionally, standard measuring cups and spoons are widely used for accuracy in cooking and baking.

The Quechua word for daughter is "wawa." In Quechua culture, family and kinship terms are significant, and "wawa" can also refer to a child in general, regardless of gender. The language has various dialects, which may have slight variations in pronunciation or usage.

The Incas were a powerful civilization that emerged in the Andean region of South America, primarily in present-day Peru, from the early 15th to the early 16th century. They established a vast empire known as Tawantinsuyu, which extended across parts of modern-day Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. The Incas are renowned for their advanced agricultural techniques, impressive architectural achievements, such as Machu Picchu, and a sophisticated system of roads and communication. Their society was highly organized, with a strong central government and a rich cultural heritage, which included intricate textiles and pottery.

As of recent estimates, South America has approximately 24 million dairy cows. The largest populations are found in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, which are key players in the region's dairy industry. These figures may fluctuate due to factors such as market demand, agricultural practices, and changes in livestock management.

Several plants native to South America include the Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa), the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao), and the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). Other notable examples are the yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) and the quinoa plant (Chenopodium quinoa). These plants play significant roles in both local ecosystems and economies.

Quechua, an indigenous language of the Andes, has many expressive phrases. For example, "Ñukaka sumaq kani" translates to "I am beautiful." Another common phrase is "Allin kawsay," meaning "good living" or "well-being," which reflects the culture's emphasis on harmony and community. These phrases illustrate the rich cultural heritage and values embedded in the Quechua language.

The line of longitude closest to Lima, Peru, is approximately 77° West. Lima is situated near this longitude, which places it in the western part of South America along the Pacific coast. This line is significant for geographical referencing and helps in locating Lima on maps.

Alpacas are not considered endangered in South America. They are domesticated animals primarily found in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, where they are bred for their valuable fiber. While wild relatives like the vicuña do face conservation challenges, alpacas themselves have stable populations due to their agricultural significance. Conservation efforts focus more on their wild relatives rather than alpacas.

In 1808, the South of America was predominantly controlled by wealthy plantation owners and slaveholders, who held significant political and economic power. This elite class benefited from the agrarian economy, particularly through the cultivation of cash crops like cotton and tobacco, which relied heavily on enslaved labor. The political landscape was further influenced by the Democratic-Republican Party, which aligned with Southern interests and supported the continuation of slavery. Overall, the power dynamics were deeply intertwined with the institution of slavery and the economic interests it generated.

The smallest country in South America, after French Guiana, is Suriname. It covers an area of approximately 163,821 square kilometers. Suriname is located on the northeastern coast of the continent and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Brazil to the south, and French Guiana to the east.

The southernmost tip of Argentina is marked by Cape Horn, located on Hornos Island. It is a significant landmark as it represents the point where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. Cape Horn is known for its treacherous waters and is often associated with maritime navigation challenges.

Ziggurats, which are step-like structures associated with ancient Mesopotamian cultures, have not been found in South America. However, South America is home to various ancient civilizations that built their own monumental structures, such as the Inca and the Moche, which created impressive pyramidal forms. The closest equivalent in South America might be the stepped pyramids of the Moche culture, like the Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna in Peru. These structures, while similar in form, differ significantly in cultural context and purpose from true ziggurats.

The two parallels of latitude that lie between South America are the Tropic of Capricorn at approximately 23.5° South and the Equator at 0° latitude. These lines help define the climate and ecological zones of the continent, with the Equator running through northern regions and the Tropic of Capricorn passing through the southern part of the continent.

Christianity was primarily spread to South America by Spanish and Portuguese missionaries during the colonial period, particularly through the efforts of the Catholic Church. Notable religious orders, such as the Jesuits, Franciscans, and Dominicans, played significant roles in evangelizing Indigenous populations. Their missions aimed to convert local peoples and establish Christian communities across the continent. This process significantly influenced South American culture and society, leading to a predominantly Catholic region today.