Exploros | Northern and Central South America: History and Its Influence

Northern and Central South America: History and Its Influence

Students learn about early agricultural engineering in Bolivia. Then they explore the Spanish conquest of South America. Next, they learn about Simón Bolívar and the role he played in driving the Spanish out of South America. Finally, students research and create a history timeline for one of the countries in the region.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Overview:

In this experience, students learn about early agricultural engineering in Bolivia. Then, they explore the Spanish conquest of South America. Next, they learn about Simón Bolívar and the role he played in driving the Spanish out of South America. Finally, students research and create a history timeline for one of the countries in the region.

Objectives:

Describe Spanish colonization of Northern and Central South America.
Explain Northern and Central South America’s struggle for independence, including the political contributions of Simón Bolívar.

The region of Northern and Central South America has an ancient history of native peoples who lived and often thrived long before Europeans “discovered” the land. In this experience you will briefly explore the early history, European conquest, and native reconquest of the region.

Objectives:

Describe Spanish colonization of Northern and Central South America.
Explain Northern and Central South America’s struggle for independence, including the political contributions of Simón Bolívar.

Remains at Tiwanaku, Bolivia

Begin by watching the following video:

Mystery of the Akapana Pyramid

What does the video tell you about the early dwellers in Bolivia?

Post your answer

Discuss your observations with a partner or the whole class.

Answers will vary, but students should note the scientific inventiveness of the people who designed the agriculture to withstand natural events.

Explain to students that although you aren’t going to study the ancient history of this region, these countries all had native populations with their own organizational structure before the Spanish arrived. If time allows, provide students the opportunity to explore these groups. More information on the early civilizations of South America is covered in the experience Southern Coastal Countries: History and Its Influence.

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