Cultural Region Characteristics
How are various cultural regions different?
Goal:
Goal:
Learn more about some of the cultural regions of the world.
North America
The United States and Canada are in the North American region. The primary language is English; however, some areas of Canada speak French. Both countries have a democratic government system. Native Americans were the first to inhabit both countries. People living in this cultural region celebrate a variety of holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, Halloween, and Hanukkah. 
When you think of traditional American food, you probably think of burgers, hot dogs, and French fries. 
But the food found in this region more often reflects the blending of many cultures from all the people that came to live in America from around the world. 
People are free to wear a variety of styles of clothes. 
And they have similar traditions and a way of life. 
Latin America and the Caribbean
Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean Islands make up this region. It is called Latin America because it was once colonized by Spain and Portugal, and their languages originated from Latin. Most people speak Spanish or Portuguese. 
Most also follow the Christian faith and have similar traditions. The Day of the Dead is an important holiday in Mexico, where they remember family members and friends who have passed away. 
Family is very important to this ethnic group, so a lot of the clothes, traditions, and ways of life are similar to, if not the same as, that of their ancestors. 
Europe
There are 44 countries in Europe. Most have their own languages and traditions. For example, the people of France speak French, the people of Spain speak Spanish, the people of Germany speak German, the people of Italy speak Italian, and the people of England speak English. (And many other countries in Europe speak other languages, too.) European culture comes from the art, music, and literature of European history. Christianity is the main religion in this region. In France, cafes are found on many street corners. 
People sit, drink coffee or tea, and eat traditional French foods, such a croissants, cheeses, and macaroons. 
Some traditional German foods are bratwurst and pretzels. 
During festivals in the German region of Bavaria, people dress in traditional clothing. 
Half-timbered houses are the traditional style for homes in Germany. 
In Italy, you can be sure to find restaurants that serve traditional pizza, pastas, cheeses, and desserts that originated in Italy. 
The city of Venice is known for its gondolas that travel down the many canals. 
European culture and traditions center a lot on family and the country's history. This can be found in any of the countries that are a part of this region. Middle East and North Africa
The Middle East is divided among three continents--Africa, Europe, and Asia. The majority of the people who live in the Middle East are Muslim and speak Arabic. 
Middle Eastern food is a mix of fresh vegetables, breads, and meats. Have you ever eaten hummus? It is a food that originated in the Middle East. 
A thwab is the traditional clothing men and women wear. 
North Africa is north of the Sahara Desert. 
Today, the people of North Africa are mainly of Arab descent, and the dominant religion is Islam. 
Their culture focuses on arts and craft, folklore, music, clothing, and food. 
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