Bolivia

People of Bolivia

Most Bolivians are indigenous (60%)30% are meztizoLess than 10% are EuropeanMost people can speak Spanish, ½ of all Bolivians can also speak another language

Wealthy Bolivians are called the elite, they are mostly large plantation ownersThe middle class consist of doctors, lawyers and other professionalsThe working class is made up of peddlers, factory workers and farmers or campesinos

Physical regions

Andean Highlands: covers much of western Bolivia. Contains the Altiplano which is home to 40% of BoliviansFew trees grow here, part of Lake Titicaca is found here at 12,507 feet

Land regions continued

The Yungas- makes up a small region in the NE part of Bolivia. Subtropical forests thrive on the hillsides.The Valles- found in south central Bolivia. Contains open grasslands and many farms. Produces much of the countries food.The Oriente- vast lowland plain that covers the north and east. Tropical rain forest are found in the north. Many of the Amazons tributaries begin here.

Climate

Varies greatly from region to region.Altiplano has clear air and cool dry climate. 55 F in JAN, 40 F in JULYYungas is warm and humid, 72 F in JAN and 52F in JULYOriente is a hot climate, 75F year roundIn Bolivia, rainy season is from Dec through Feb.

Economy

Bolivia has a wealth of natural resources, but they have not been used to produce economic growth.In the last ten years the government has began to play a larger role in the economy by increasing state control over some industries.33% of the population works in service industries, 50 % of Bolivians work in agriculture. Major crops include potatoes, wheat and quinoa. Bolivia is also a leading producer of coca. 10% of the population works in manufacturing.