South America’s northernmost nations, Colombia and Venezuela, have similar environments and cultures. Yet Venezuela has more valuable resources (especially oil), and this makes for an entirely different economy with nearly double the per-capita income. "The Caribbean Coast" is an insightful look at the effects of a nation’s past and present on its citizens. It compares the region's resources, agriculture, and industry, as well as its urban and rural life. Also included in this exploration are visits to the small, neighboring nations, the Guyanas, which are the only non-Latin nations in South America and among the most multiracial.
Grade Levels: 4 to Adult