Geography and Culture of Mexico and Brazil Overview

These flashcards provide key vocabulary and definitions related to the geographical and cultural aspects of Mexico and Brazil.

Official Name of Mexico

United Mexican States.

Borders of Mexico

United States to the north, Guatemala and Belize to the southeast, Pacific Ocean to the west, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea to the east.

Largest freshwater lake in Mexico

Lake Chapala.

Key mountain ranges in Mexico

Sierra Madre Occidental, Sierra Madre Oriental, Sierra Madre del Sur.

Mexico's geographic area rank in the world

14th largest country.

Climate zones of Mexico

Arid and semi-arid (north), temperate (central highlands), tropical and subtropical (coasts and south), alpine (high mountain elevations).

Mexico's biodiversity

One of the world’s most biodiverse countries with habitats including rainforests, deserts, and mountains.

Impact of geography on Mexican culture

Geographic isolation led to diverse cultural traditions, such as those in Oaxaca.

Significant ancient civilization known as the 'Mother culture' of Mesoamerica

Olmecs.

Economic importance of the U.S.-Mexico border

Fosters trade and industry, particularly through maquiladoras.

Major civilization known for its achievements in astronomy and mathematics

Maya Civilization.

Portugal's claim over Brazil

Pedro Álvares Cabral claimed Brazil for Portugal in 1500.

Largest country in South America

Brazil.

Main export during the colonial period in Brazil

Sugarcane.

Dominant sport in Brazil

Soccer (Futebol).

Brazil's cultural influences

A mixture of Indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences.

Famous Brazilian celebration that includes cultural aspects of African rhythms

Carnival.

A type of black bean stew in Brazil

Feijoada.