Exploring Latin America

This series covers the history, economy, geography, and culture of this vibrant region, giving readers a full picture of Latin AmericaÎs past and present. Home to well over half a billion people, the region encompasses rainforest, desert, and savanna. Most of mainland Latin America has been independent since the early nineteenth century, though some West Indian islands remain under foreign flags. The regionÎs economic dependence continues despite its valuable exports of petroleum, agricultural commodities, and manufactured goods.