Misrepresentation Of Latin America

While both authors agree that Latin America is often misrepresented, they disagree on whether the term "Latin America" is a misrepresentation of the region itself. Holloway believes that the term fails to explain the true culture and origin of Latin America. Moya; however, believes that the name is "more than a convenient label" and has more historical significance and cultural meaning than any other region in the world. Holloway begins with explaining how the whole concept of a "Latin America" was created by Europeans. Prior to their arrival into the "New World", all of the Americas were inhabited by indigenous peoples who chose where to settle based on landmarks, water sources, and their proximity to other tribes. After colonization, the countries of French Guiana, Suriname, Guyana, and Belize were and are not considered to be part of "Latin America" because the settlers were from France and did not speak Spanish or Portuguese like most of the region. However Haiti is considered to be a Latin American country due to the successful Haitian slave revolt that is seen as the start of freedom in other Latin American countries.

While Latin America refers to both North and South America as "America", those who live in the United States often refer to only their country as "America". This only contributes to further controversy. Lastly, Holloway expands upon how indigenous heritage is ignored when using the title "Latin America" as distinct groups with their own history and culture still exist. Their heritage is still strong in some regions and it is apparent that a revival of tradition is taking