What does "Latin America" and "Latin American" mean to you? Does it mean those countries or areas where Latin-based languages in the "Western Hemisphere" predominate? Does it include Spanish, Portugese and French-speaking nations?
"Latin America" is an evolving idea that dates back to the 1800s, and there are competing definitions duking it out in the language of books and the internet even in 2010. Above tracks expansion of the French term Amérique latine in printed book texts using the Google Ngram Reader at http://ngrams.googlelabs.com/
Why is the idea important globally? 580 million people; growing populations; for those living in the USA, large influx of people from the region into that country. Growing economic and cultural clout. Better to consider ideas than ignore them. Global competition and diversity.
"Latin America" in English texts picks up in the 20th century. "Walk softly and carry a big stick," quipped Teddy Roosevelt, reflecting US policy fondness for hemispheric intervention, not limited to military and economic action. "Latin America" has tilted "left" in recent years.
In Spanish texts, there appears to be a clear movement in the use of the term Latinoamérica from the 1930s onward. Mexico nationalized its oil production in 1938.
Today's Rune: Partnership.
2 comments:
I guess I hadn't really thought about the changing perceptions of that part of the world.
February now that hedge funds are heavily invested in the commodities markets.
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