South America
South America
South America (pronunciation: /ˈsaʊθ əˈmɛrɪkə/) is a continent in the Western Hemisphere, mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, with a relatively small portion in the Northern Hemisphere.
Etymology
The name South America comes from the Latin term Americus, the Latin version of the name of the explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who was the first to suggest that the New World was not Asia, but a separate landmass. The name South is added to differentiate it from North America, its counterpart in the Northern Hemisphere.
Geography
South America is home to many interesting geographical features. It is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean and on the north and east by the Atlantic Ocean. North America and the Caribbean Sea lie to the northwest. It includes twelve sovereign states, a part of France, and a non-sovereign area.
Countries
The countries in South America include Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela. The French Overseas region of French Guiana is also considered a part of South America.
Flora and Fauna
South America is rich in biodiversity. It is home to many unique species of animals and plants. The Amazon Rainforest, located in South America, is one of the world's greatest natural resources and the most biodiverse tropical rainforest in the world.
Culture
The culture of South America draws on diverse cultural traditions. These include the native cultures of the indigenous peoples of South America and the culture of the colonists who settled the continent from Europe.
Languages
The most widely spoken languages in South America are Portuguese and Spanish. Other languages include English, French, Dutch, and many native languages.
Health
Healthcare in South America varies widely, depending on the country and the region. Some countries, like Chile and Uruguay, have highly developed healthcare systems, while others, like Bolivia and Paraguay, are still developing their healthcare infrastructure.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on South America
- Wikipedia's article - South America
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