- Overview
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This book broadens our view of Central and South America, the lands that we have only limited impressions of.
- Book Intro
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Latin America is a group of countries that is still a mystery to most of us. Although travel has increased to Latin American countries, few people know the history and culture. This book broadens our view of Central and South America, lands that have only limited impressions. It doesn't just focus on ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs and Inca, or natural environments like the Amazon rainforest. Instead, the book introduces stories of life centered on the Latin American identity, from the mixing of races to the religions, cultures, politics, and economies of the mixed races.
One of the great aspects of Latin American countries is cultural hybridity. Various people and cultures from a range of continents mixed to create unique cultures and values. This book begins with the historical background of the birth of mestizos/mestizas (men/women of mixed race), the majority of modern Latin American countries. It also covers colorful stories: political changes realized through revolutions and colonial independence; economic instability that birthed the objectionable term "banana republic"; the paradox of the rich natural environment that is the Amazon rainforest; and the joys of everyday life such as the tango, salsa, and football. By the end of the book, readers will be able to assemble the scattered puzzle pieces of Latin America for a more complete picture.
While living in Mexico City for about seven years since 2000, Park Jeonghoon, the author, has reported on major news from Mexico, Brazil, and Venezuela, countries that have been in periods of major upheaval. Even after returning to Korea, Park has continued to conduct research activities related to Latin American countries. This book is full of the most important and credible stories that can only be told by someone who has seen the depths that Latin America has to offer. Although it would be difficult to learn all the charms of the Latin Americas in one reading, readers will at least gain invaluable insight and even become curious about the future of this great region after reading this book.
- About the Author
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Park Jeonghoon
Park Jeonghoon previously worked as a freelance journalist specialized in Latin America, living in Mexico City from 2000 to 2007. Park has written articles in various newspapers including Hankyoreh21, Le Mond Diplomatique Korea, and Pressian. After returning to South Korea, Park has been serving as a guest researcher for the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute, participating in Latin American Cultural Cities Research. Park has also been participating in Latin American Case Study Research at the Social Public Research Institute while writing articles for SisaIN. In 2016, Park received an MA from Sogang University for his studies on Latin American Politics. Books translated by Park Jeonghoon include Guerillas, Marcos and Mr. Antonio and The Thoughts of Father Jose Marria.
Kim sunah