Length: 20 mins. ea.

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About Shelburne Films

Central America Today Series

This three tape series is designed for classroom use in geography and social studies classes. Each tape is 20 minutes in length and licensed for public educational use.

The Geography of Central America

The primary geographic features of the region are shown utilizing animated maps, graphics and live video. We see how the region was formed geologically. Then we see some of its many volcanoes, its lakes, mountains, coastal lowlands and jungles .

The similarities and differences between the seven countries that make up Central America, (Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama) are discussed, along with the climate, vegetation and natural resources, from lowland jungles to highland rain and cloud forests, including how they effect the region's agricultural produce, manufacturing and exports. Transportation systems are shown, especially the international route through the Panama Canal.

The Heritage of Central America

Central America's geographical position made it a crossroads of world trade, a position which would bring powerful external forces, as well as natural forces like earthquakes and volcanoes, to bear upon its history and growth.

The ancient Maya culture dates back 3000 years and its descendants can still be seen, despite the 300 year rule of the Spanish. Most of the region's countries experienced a turbulent history. Nicaragua is used as an example of the kinds of foreign interference, revolution and natural disaster that afflicted at least five of the nations. In contrast, Costa Rica and Belize have had more tranquil histories. Historical footage of Panama Canal construction, several earthquakes and revolutions are included.

Life in Central America

How the people live, their varied cultures, religions, and lifestyles are shown along with the unusual mix of animals that populate the region.

The influence of the Maya culture on the lifestyles of many Central Americans can easily be seen in the northern and western areas, while the Spanish culture permeates most of the rest of the region. Native American cultures like the Maya and Cuna Indians are shown. A small population of Blacks live along the Caribbean coast.

Animals native to both North and South America have wandered into the land bridge of Central America over the ages, making for a diverse mixture of strange and familiar creatures inhabiting the rainforests and jungle lagoons.