A Definition of What Latin America Is

Posted by Tony Dunnell Oct 2, 2009

A broad definition of Latin America often defines the region as all those countries in the western hemisphere to the south of the United States. Another general assumption sees Latin America as the combination of South America and Central America, excluding or forgetting the islands of the Caribbean.

Latin America Definition

Any definition of Latin America is actually more complex than this. Language is an integral part of the Latin American countries which form the region. This in turn is inextricably linked with Latin American history. Generally, Latin America is accepted as being comprised of the 20 nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean islands where a Romance language is spoken. A Romance language is one derived from Latin, in this case Spanish, Portuguese or French.

For a more detailed examination of what is Latin America, have a look at the article Definition and Location of What is Latin America.

What Else Defined Latin America?

For some further overviews of the shaping of Latin America as a whole, why not have a look at The History of Smallpox in Latin America. Smallpox, introduced into the region by European explorers and colonists, arguably had a greater effect upon the New World than all the military resources of the European powers. The Conquistadors numbered in the hundreds – smallpox was an unseen enemy of the indigenous peoples, and an enemy whose numbers were countless.