Central America
Definition
Central America is a region found in the southern tip of North America and is made up of seven countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama.
Analogy
Imagine Central America as a bridge connecting two massive lands - North America and South America. It's smaller than these two continents but plays an important role in connecting them geographically and culturally.
Related terms
Panama Canal: An artificial waterway in Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. It's like a shortcut for ships traveling between these two oceans without having to go around South America.
Maya Civilization: An ancient civilization developed by the Maya peoples who were noted for their hieroglyphic script—the only known fully developed writing system of pre-Columbian Americas—as well as for their art, architecture, mathematics, and astronomical systems.
Conquistadors: Spanish conquerors who came to the New World in search of gold and other riches. They had a significant impact on Central America's history and culture.
"Central America" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (1)
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.