Chapter 9 homework

Chapter 9, Section 1

1. The Maya established cites and built terraces, courts and temples. They developed accurate calendars and used astronomical observations to predict solar eclipses. The Aztec civilization established their capital, which is now Mexico City.

2. After gaining independence from Spain, Mexico’s political and economic power remained in the hands of a small group or wealthy landowners, army officers, and clergy. After power struggles, with the backing of military forces and wealthy landowners, caudillos (dictators) became absolute rulers. A constitution in 1917 established Mexico as a federal republic and separated powers into three branches, executive, legislative, and judicial.

Creative Writing:
Mexico’s national sport, bullfighting came from Spanish roots to Mexico when Spanish conquistadors traveled to Latin America. Baseball is thought to come to Mexico from American soldiers. People are also passionate about soccer which may have originated in Japan.

Chapter 9, Section 2

1. Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion.

2. Africans, mixed ethnic groups, Natives, Europeans, and Asians make up the population.

Creative Writing:
While exploring Panama, he realized there was an ocean similar to the Atlantic Ocean on the other side, which is now known as the Pacific Ocean. Later people thought of building a waterway that would create a shortcut between the 2 oceans.

Chapter 9, Section 3

1. Migration has led South America to become disproportionately urban.

2. Stable economies and high standards of living most determine the quality of health care.

Creative Writing:
I would not want to move from a rural area to a city in South America. The cities are densely populated and too crowded and hectic. Finding a job would be harder because so many other people are fighting for the same job.