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Before European explorers came to the Americas, 3 empires flourished in what we now call Latin America Maya Inca Aztecs
I. Ethnic Group
Arose in 1300s AD in Central Mexico
Capital was Tenochtitlan on island in lake (today Mexico City)
Developed class system, emperor & military leaders ruled
Farming: corn, tomatoes, cacao beans “food of the gods” (chocolate!)
Spanish slaughtered Aztecs
The Aztec
Europeans explored the Americas & colonized much of it Spain & Portugal first Britain, France,
Netherlands later “Conquistadors”
(conquerors) destroyed Aztec (Hernan Cortes) & converted them to Catholicism
Spain took over the most territory
II. Religion -- Catholic
European missionaries converted (forced?) Native Americans to Catholicism Catholic is main religion in
Latin America today
Taught European languages Spanish & Portuguese are
main languages throughout Latin America
Some English & French
Set up schools & hospitals Over 80 percent of
Mexicans are Catholic
Religion
III. Art: Murals have been a communication tool for communities for thousands of years. In his murals, Diego Rivera, primarily depicts the historical perspective of the
Mexican people. In the 1930’s, Rivera began creating murals on the walls of hospitals, schools, and government buildings in
his native land. He did this so all people could enjoy his art- work. Diego Rivera was a storyteller and used his murals to tell
the story of Mexico.
Day of the Dead
November 2nd is the official date for Day of the Dead, although it is celebrated between October 31st and November 2nd. These dates correspond with the Catholic celebrations of All Saints Day and All Souls Day. This correspondence results from the Catholic Church's efforts to "find similarities between the indigenous and Christian beliefs The best way to describe this holiday is to say it is a time when family members who have died are remembered. In Mexico, this festival is considered to be the most important holiday of the year.