Latin America: Geography, Politics, and Key Regions - Exam 1 Review
Latin America: Geography, Politics, and Key Regions - Exam 1 Review
First Exam Details
- Covers Latin America lecture material and related maps.
- Does not cover book material (this is covered by quizzes).
- Students must bring a number two pencil.
- Special instructions regarding exam logistics will be emailed, with an incentive for compliance to ensure a smooth process.
Uruguay: An Anomaly in Latin America
Democracy, Stability, and Anti-Corruption
- Considered one of the most democratic, stable, and strongest democracies in the Western Hemisphere.
- Transparency International ranks Uruguay as the number one least corrupt country in the Western Hemisphere, tied with Canada. This stands out compared to many of its Latin American neighbors, where corruption is often a problem.
Progressive Social Policies
- Uruguay has been notably progressive, legalizing same-sex marriage and abortion, which are outlawed in many other Latin American countries.
Cannabis Legalization
- The first country on Earth to completely legalize cannabis (not just decriminalize, as seen in places like Portugal, Amsterdam, or certain U.S. states). It is 100\% legal.
Clean Energy Leadership
- Uruguay's energy sector is one of the cleanest and most carbon-neutral globally.
- 98\% of its electricity is sourced from renewable sources, including solar, wind, and hydroelectricity.
- This makes Uruguay a model not just in Latin America, but globally, as an exception rather than the rule.
Economy and Environment: The Pampas
- Uruguay's economy is primarily agriculture-based.
- Historically, much of Uruguay's natural environment was tall grassland prairie, an extension of the Pampas region.
- The Pampas: This region of tall grassland prairie spans Northern Argentina, Uruguay, and Southern Brazil.
- Its soils are comparable in quality to those of Iowa, which many soil scientists consider the best on Earth.
- These outstanding soils contribute to highly productive agriculture in the region.
Argentina: Economy, The Dirty War, and Territorial Disputes
Agriculture in the Pampas
- Wheat Production: The Argentine Pampas is a major wheat-producing region, akin to a