Contextualization

Theoretical Introduction

Latin America, with its rich social, cultural and geographic diversity, has been a stage for conflicts and tensions since the colonial period to the present day. These conflicts include issues of territorial borders, socioeconomic inequalities, exploitation of natural resources, political tensions and even armed wars.

The region's geopolitics are complex, influenced by a variety of factors both internal (such as the social formation and political positioning of each country) and external (such as the relationship with world powers, mainly the United States). Understanding these factors and how they affect the dynamics of conflicts in Latin America is crucial to understanding the reality of the continent.

In addition, the situation of large Latin American cities, especially those related to population distribution, living and working conditions, as well as the existence of favelas and risk zones, is a common problem that deserves to be analyzed in light of these conflicts.

Contextualization

Latin America is home to an invaluable wealth of natural resources, such as minerals, oil and gas, forests and biodiversity, which play a fundamental role in its economy and are a source of disputes and controversies. The exploitation of these resources and regional cooperation, especially in terms of Mercosur, play a crucial role in such tensions.

The relationship between the United States and Latin America is another important aspect to consider. Since the Monroe Doctrine in the 19th century, which established the policy of "America for Americans", the US has significantly influenced Latin American politics and economy, often generating tensions and conflicts.

Practical Activity: Geopolitical Analysis in the Americas: A Study of Conflict and Tensions

Activity Title:

"Geopolitical Analysis in the Americas: A Study of Conflict and Tensions"

Project Objective:

To investigate and analyze a specific conflict or tension in the American context (Latin America or Relations with the US), considering demographic, socioeconomic, political and cultural aspects.

Detailed Project Description:

Students, in groups of 3 to 5, must:

• Choose a conflict or tension that occurs in Latin America or in the relationship between Latin America and the United States.
• Conduct a deep and comprehensive research on the chosen topic, using a variety of resources (books, articles, documentaries, interviews etc.)
• Apply knowledge of demography, economy, geography, history and politics in the analysis of the conflict. The focus should be directed to issues such as borders, population distribution, living and working conditions, existence of favelas and risk zones, exploitation of natural resources and regional cooperation.
• Analyze the conflict from different perspectives (for example, those of different social groups, nations involved, international organizations etc.)

Necessary Materials:

• Internet access for research
• Books and/or academic articles on the subject
• Paper and pen for notes and organization of thought
• Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides, etc.)

Project Steps:

1. Formation of groups of 3 to 5 students.
2. Selection of the conflict/tension to be analyzed.
3. Research and collection of reference materials (books, articles, documentaries, interviews, etc.) on the chosen conflict.
4. Detailed analysis of the reference materials and group discussion for the construction of a shared understanding of the conflict.
5. Division of research and analysis tasks among group members.
6. Individual writing of the parts of the final report.
7. Joint review of the final report and finalization of the presentation.
8. Presentation of the study to the class, with room for questions and discussion.

Project Delivery and Written Document:

The final delivery of the project consists of an oral presentation and a written report established according to the following topics:

1. Introduction: The chosen conflict should be contextualized, presenting its relevance and application in the real world, as well as the objective of this study.
2. Development: Here, students should explain the theory behind the conflict, detail the methodology used (how the research was organized, what resources were used, how the analysis was carried out), and discuss the results obtained.
3. Conclusion: Students should revisit the main points of their study, discuss what they learned during the project, and conclude on the chosen conflict.
4. Bibliography: The sources used for the elaboration of the work should be indicated.

The report will be evaluated considering the depth of the research, the quality of the analysis, the clarity in the presentation of the results and the collaboration and teamwork demonstrated by the students.